In which of the following types of reaction are electrons gained?Group of answer choicesreductionneutralizationdecompositionoxidation

1. Break Down the Problem

We are tasked with identifying the type of reaction in which electrons are gained. The options provided are:

1. Reduction
2. Neutralization
3. Decomposition
4. Oxidation

2. Relevant Concepts

• Reduction: This is a chemical reaction in which a substance gains electrons, resulting in a decrease in oxidation state.
• Oxidation: In contrast, this involves the loss of electrons and an increase in oxidation state.
• Neutralization: This is a reaction between an acid and a base to produce water and salts, not directly concerned with electron transfer.
• Decomposition: This reaction involves a single compound breaking down into two or more simpler substances and does not specifically involve electron transfer.

3. Analysis and Detail

• In reduction, an agent typically gains electrons, hence reducing its oxidation state.
• Oxidation involves losing electrons, so it does not apply here.
• Neutralization focuses on acid-base reactions without direct electron transfer.
• Decomposition reactions also do not focus on electron gain or loss.

4. Verify and Summarize

Considering the definitions and processes involved, the only reaction type in which electrons are gained is reduction.

Final Answer

The type of reaction in which electrons are gained is reduction.