Question

question 2 (1 point)
if an atom gains electrons, why is it called a reduction?

Explanation:

The term 'reduction' originally referred to the extraction of a metal from its ore, a process where the metal's oxidation state is lowered. When an atom gains electrons, its oxidation number decreases. Since oxidation number reduction occurs, the process is called reduction.

Answer:

When an atom gains electrons, its oxidation number decreases, which is why it is called a reduction.