**Half-reaction**
A half-reaction is a chemical equation that shows either the oxidation or reduction process separately, highlighting the transfer of electrons in redox reactions. It represents one part of the overall reaction, focusing on either the loss or gain of electrons.
## Overview
In redox chemistry, reactions involve the transfer of electrons between species. A half-reaction isolates either the oxidation (electron loss) or reduction (electron gain) component, making it easier to balance complex reactions. Each half-reaction includes reactants, products, and electrons to account for charge changes.
## Applications
Half-reactions are essential in electrochemistry for constructing galvanic and electrolytic cells. They help determine electrode potentials and understand reaction mechanisms in batteries, corrosion, and biological systems.
**Meta description:**
A half-reaction is a chemical equation showing either oxidation or reduction in redox processes, detailing electron transfer. It is fundamental in balancing and analyzing redox reactions.