Autoxidation refers to a chemical reaction that occurs spontaneously in the presence of oxygen. It is a process that involves the oxidation of a substance without the need for an external catalyst or energy input. In this article, we will explore the definition and meaning of autoxidation, its origin, synonyms, antonyms, and associations.
Definitions
Autoxidation is a chemical reaction that occurs when a substance reacts with oxygen in the air. It is a process that can occur spontaneously without the need for a catalyst or external energy input. During autoxidation, the substance undergoes a series of reactions that lead to the formation of free radicals, which can then react with other substances to form new compounds.
Origin
The term autoxidation was first used in the early 20th century to describe the spontaneous oxidation of unsaturated fats in the presence of oxygen. Since then, the term has been used to describe a wide range of chemical reactions that occur spontaneously in the presence of oxygen.
Meaning in different dictionaries
According to the Oxford English Dictionary, autoxidation is “the spontaneous oxidation of a substance in the presence of air or oxygen.” Merriam-Webster defines it as “oxidation that occurs spontaneously in the presence of oxygen.” The Cambridge Dictionary defines it as “the process by which a substance reacts with oxygen in the air without the need for a catalyst or external energy input.”
Associations
Autoxidation is often associated with the degradation of organic materials, such as oils, fats, and polymers. It is also associated with the formation of free radicals, which can have damaging effects on cells and tissues in the body.
Synonyms
Some synonyms of autoxidation include self-oxidation, self-ignition, and spontaneous combustion.
Antonyms
There are no direct antonyms of autoxidation, as it is a process that occurs spontaneously in the presence of oxygen.
The same root words
Autoxidation is derived from the Greek words “auto,” meaning self, and “oxidation,” meaning the process of combining with oxygen.
Example Sentences
- The autoxidation of unsaturated fats can lead to the formation of harmful free radicals.
- The polymer degradation was caused by the autoxidation of the material in the presence of oxygen.
- The spontaneous combustion of oily rags is an example of autoxidation.