What happens to zinc atoms in a dry-cell battery?

In a dry-cell battery, the zinc atoms undergo a process of oxidation.1

As the battery functions, the zinc, which serves as the anode (or negative electrode), loses electrons. Specifically, the zinc atoms increase their oxidation number from 0 to +2, releasing two electrons in the process. This can be represented by the following half-reaction:21

$$\text{Zn}\to {\text{Zn}}^{2+}+2e^{-}$$

By losing these electrons, the metallic zinc is converted into zinc ions (${\text{Zn}}^{2+}$). This oxidation process is a fundamental part of the oxidation-reduction reaction that generates the electrical energy provided by the battery.13