Which of the following statements is true about oxidation-reduction (redox) reactions?

• A. Oxidation involves the gain of electrons, while reduction involves the loss of electrons.
• B. Redox reactions do not involve any transfer of electrons.
• C. Oxidation involves the loss of electrons, while reduction involves the gain of electrons.
• D. Both oxidation and reduction involve the gain of electrons.

Answer: (C)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Recall the fundamental definitions of oxidation and reduction in redox reactions: Oxidation is the process where a species loses electrons, and reduction is the process where a species gains electrons.
2. Understand that redox reactions always involve the transfer of electrons from one species to another, which is the core characteristic of these reactions.
3. Evaluate each statement given in the problem by comparing it to the definitions: For example, the statement 'Oxidation involves the gain of electrons' contradicts the definition, so it is false.
4. Recognize that the correct statement must reflect that oxidation is loss of electrons and reduction is gain of electrons, and that electron transfer is essential in redox reactions.
5. Conclude that the true statement is: 'Oxidation involves the loss of electrons, while reduction involves the gain of electrons.'