In an oxidation-reduction (redox) reaction, what happens to atoms involved in the reaction?

• A. Atoms share protons to form new bonds.
• B. Atoms change their number of neutrons.
• C. Atoms transfer electrons between each other.
• D. Atoms are converted into energy.

Answer: (C)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand that in an oxidation-reduction (redox) reaction, the key process involves the transfer of electrons between atoms or ions.
2. Recall that oxidation refers to the loss of electrons by an atom, while reduction refers to the gain of electrons by an atom.
3. Recognize that protons and neutrons in the nucleus of atoms do not change during redox reactions; only the electrons in the outer shells are involved.
4. Note that atoms do not share protons to form new bonds in redox reactions; sharing electrons to form bonds is characteristic of covalent bonding, not redox processes.
5. Conclude that the defining feature of redox reactions is the transfer of electrons between atoms, which changes their oxidation states but does not convert atoms into energy or change their neutron count.