What is an oxidation-reduction reaction commonly known as?

An oxidation-reduction reaction is commonly known as a redox reaction. This term arises from the processes of oxidation, where a substance loses electrons, and reduction, where a substance gains electrons. In a redox reaction, these two processes are always linked; as one substance is oxidized, another is simultaneously reduced.

The significant aspect of redox reactions is their role in various chemical processes, including combustion, respiration, and corrosion, among others. They can be identified by changes in oxidation states of the reactants involved. Understanding these reactions is crucial in both organic and inorganic chemistry, as well as in various applications such as battery technology and electrochemistry.

In contrast, synthesis and decomposition reactions pertain to the combination or breakdown of compounds, respectively, while electrolysis specifically refers to the process of driving a chemical reaction by passing an electric current through a solution or molten compound. However, it is not synonymous with the broader category of redox reactions.