Hydroxyl Radical (Noun)
Meaning
The monovalent group -OH in such compounds as bases and some acids and alcohols.
Classification
Nouns denoting substances.
Examples
- The hydroxyl radical is highly reactive and participates in various chemical reactions within living cells.
- Scientists have found that the hydroxyl radical plays a crucial role in the detoxification process of the human body.
- In organic chemistry, compounds containing a hydroxyl radical are known as alcohols, such as ethanol and methanol.
- The hydroxyl radical, being highly reactive, tends to form covalent bonds with other molecules rather easily.
- Reactive oxygen species containing the hydroxyl radical have been linked to cell damage and aging in animals.