Free radical facts for kids
A free radical is a molecule with an unpaired electron (Afzal & Armstrong, 2002). The molecule is reactive and seeks another electron to pair. Free radicals are involved in the mechanisms of damage associated with disease development (Rice-Evans, 1999). Examples are hydrogen peroxide, hypochlorite, nitric oxide and nitrogen dioxide.
The need for antioxidants in our daily life is becoming more critical with increased exposure to free radicals (Percival, 1998). Pollution, cigarette smoke, drugs, illness and stress can increase our exposure.
Percival, M. (1998). “Antioxidants”. Clinical Nutrition Insights 1/96 Rev. 10/98. http://acudoc.com/Antioxidants.PDF
Images for kids
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The hydroxyl radical, Lewis structure shown, contains one unpaired electron
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Hydroxide ion compared to a hydroxyl radical
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Homolysis of a bromine molecule producing two bromine radicals
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Homolysis of dibenzoyl peroxide producing two benzoyloxy radicals
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Reduction of a ketone to form a ketyl radical
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Radical abstraction between a benzoyloxy radical and hydrogen bromide
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Radical addition of a bromine radical to a substituted alkene
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A radical elimination reaction of a benzoyloxy radical
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The radical derived from α-tocopherol
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Spectrum of the blue flame from a butane torch showing excited molecular radical band emission and Swan bands
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Structure of the deoxyadenosyl radical, a common biosynthetic intermediate.
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Moses Gomberg (1866–1947), the founder of radical chemistry
See also
In Spanish: Radical (química) para niños
