gen-define-antioxidants-and-give-one-short-worked-example-de97

Define antioxidants and give one short worked example.

# Antioxidants **Definition:** Antioxidants are molecules that inhibit or prevent the oxidation of other molecules by neutralizing free radicals and reactive oxygen species (ROS). They donate electrons to unstable free radicals without becoming highly reactive themselves, thereby stopping chain reactions that can damage cells. ## Worked Example: Vitamin C (Ascorbic Acid) **The Process:** 1. **Free radical formation:** A hydroxyl radical (•OH) forms in the body during normal metabolism 2. **Cell damage threat:** This •OH radical can attack cell membranes, proteins, or DNA by stealing electrons 3. **Antioxidant intervention:** Vitamin C donates an electron to the hydroxyl radical: •OH + Vitamin C → H₂O + Vitamin C• 4. **Result:** - The dangerous hydroxyl radical becomes harmless water - Vitamin C becomes a radical itself (Vitamin C•), BUT it's a stable, non-reactive radical - The Vitamin C radical can be recycled by other antioxidants or safely eliminated **Outcome:** Cell damage is prevented, and the oxidative chain reaction is stopped.