Reduction in chemistry is defined as?

Reduction in chemistry is defined as the gain of electrons. This process involves a substance acquiring electrons, leading to a reduction in its oxidation state. When a species gains electrons, it often results in a decrease in positive charge or an increase in negative charge, reflecting the essence of reduction.

This can typically occur in redox (reduction-oxidation) reactions, where one substance is oxidized (loses electrons) while another is reduced. Therefore, the correct answer reflects the fundamental concept of reduction, highlighting how gaining electrons is key to understanding these chemical transformations.

In broader terms, understanding reduction alongside oxidation is crucial for predicting and analyzing chemical reactions, especially in fields such as organic chemistry and electrochemistry.