key term - Oxidation

Definition

Oxidation in the context of anatomy and physiology involves the loss of electrons from a molecule, atom, or ion within metabolic processes. It is a critical reaction in the body that helps in energy production, especially during the breakdown of nutrients.

Related terms

Reduction: Reduction is the gain of electrons by a molecule, atom, or ion, often occurring simultaneously with oxidation in metabolic reactions.

Electron Transport Chain:

The electron transport chain is a series of complexes that transfer electrons from electron donors to electron acceptors via redox reactions, coupled with the transfer of protons across a membrane to generate ATP.

ATP (Adenosine Triphosphate):

ATP is a high-energy molecule used as the main energy currency in cells, produced through oxidative phosphorylation during cellular respiration