How are cell catabolic reactions oxidation reactions?

[johnwandering]

Arent most reactions that break apart molecules reductive?
Breaking a hydrocarbon in half causes reduction of the molecules (adding H at the broken end).

So, where is this association coming from???

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[NeuroCT Geek]

Catabolism involves the removal of electrons from a molecule. For instance, breaking down a glucose molecule yields tens of electrons which enter the ETC and is thus the basis of cell respiration. That loss of electrons is why catabolic reactions are referred to as oxidative. Same thing with fatty acid catabolism/oxidation.