What happens to the oxidation state of an element during a redox reaction?

Explanation

In redox reactions, one element loses electrons (oxidation) while another gains electrons (reduction). Oxidation states change in opposite directions for the two substances involved.

When an element is oxidized, its oxidation state becomes more positive as it loses electrons. When reduced, the oxidation state becomes more negative as it gains electrons.

Every redox reaction has both oxidation and reduction happening simultaneously. The element being oxidized increases its oxidation state, while the one being reduced decreases its oxidation state.