What is the process of oxidation?

The process of oxidation refers to the combination of oxygen with another substance to form a new compound. This reaction is fundamental in many chemical processes, including combustion, respiration, and corrosion. When a substance oxidizes, it typically loses electrons to oxygen, leading to the formation of oxides, which are compounds that contain oxygen and one or more other elements.

In the context of fire fighting, understanding oxidation is crucial because it is the core chemical reaction that fuels fires. When materials oxidize—such as wood burning in a fire—they react with oxygen, producing energy in the form of heat and light. This is why controlling the availability of oxygen is a key strategy in fire suppression.

While other processes mentioned may involve heat and energy release or breakdown of molecules, they do not directly define oxidation. Oxidation specifically emphasizes the role of oxygen in the formation of new compounds, making it the correct answer to the question posed.