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Electron transfer is a fundamental process in chemistry, often referred to as oxidation-reduction or redox reactions. These reactions involve the movement of electrons from one chemical species to another. In an oxidation process, a substance loses electrons, while in a reduction process, it gains electrons. These two processes are coupled and occur simultaneously.12

For example, when zinc metal reacts with copper(II) ions in water, the zinc loses electrons (is oxidized) and becomes a zinc ion, while the copper(II) ions gain electrons (are reduced) and become copper metal. The net change is the transfer of electrons from zinc to copper.1

Electron transfer is crucial in various chemical and biological systems, including electrochemical reactions and metabolism. In biological systems, electron transfer carriers in the respiratory chain facilitate the transfer of electrons, ultimately leading to energy production.34

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