In redox reactions, what is commonly exchanged between reactants?

In redox reactions, electrons are the primary entities that are exchanged between reactants. This exchange is central to the definition of redox processes, which involve the transfer of electrons from one reactant to another.

In a redox reaction, one species is oxidized, meaning it loses electrons, while another species is reduced, meaning it gains those electrons. This transfer alters the oxidation states of the reactants and is fundamental to the redox concept. Understanding this mechanism is crucial as it underpins many chemical reactions, including combustion, respiration, and corrosion.

While protons, neutrons, and ions can be involved in various chemical processes, they do not play the direct role associated with electron transfer in redox reactions. Protons may be involved in acid-base reactions, and ions can participate in ionic reactions, but electrons remain the focal point of redox chemistry. The movement of electrons directly influences the energy changes and the chemical behavior of the substances involved in these reactions.