What is the process of removing oxygen from a chemical's molecular structure known as?

The process of removing oxygen from a chemical's molecular structure is known as reduction. In chemistry, reduction refers specifically to the gain of electrons or the loss of oxygen from a substance. When a substance is reduced, it generally becomes more electron-rich, which often changes its reactivity and properties.

Reduction is integral to many chemical reactions, especially in organic chemistry and biochemistry, as it contrasts with oxidation, where a substance gains oxygen or loses electrons. Understanding this distinction is crucial for studying various chemical processes, including those involved in turf and ornamental management, where metabolic pathways and nutrient uptake may be influenced by these redox reactions.