What are free radicals characterized by?
Understand the Problem
The question is asking for characteristics of free radicals, and it presents multiple choice options. The correct choice should reflect the defining property of free radicals in chemistry, which is that they have unpaired electrons.
Answer
Unpaired electrons, unstable, highly reactive.
Free radicals are characterized by having one or more unpaired electrons, making them unstable and highly reactive.
Answer for screen readers
Free radicals are characterized by having one or more unpaired electrons, making them unstable and highly reactive.
More Information
Free radicals are involved in many biological processes. Due to their reactivity, they can cause damage to cells, proteins, and DNA, contributing to aging and various diseases.
Tips
A common mistake is confusing free radicals with radicals in mathematical expressions or any radical term, which can lead to misunderstanding their nature in biology and chemistry.
Sources
- Free Radicals: Properties, Sources, Targets, and Their Implication in ... - PMC - pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov
- Free radicals: How do they affect the body? - MedicalNewsToday - medicalnewstoday.com
- What are free radicals? A dietitian explains - mdanderson.org
