Question

what are antioxidants?​

Answer 1

Explanation:

Antioxidants are compounds that inhibit oxidation. Oxidation is a chemical reaction that can produce free radicals, thereby leading to chain reactions that may damage the cells of organisms. Antioxidants such as thiols or ascorbic acid (vitamin C) terminate these chain reactions.

Answer 2

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A substance or a compound which inhibits the oxidation of other substances is referred as antioxidant. Oxidation of compounds produces reactive intermediates which are harmful. So antioxidants prevent oxidation and formation of reactive substances. These are also added to food materials containing fats and oils to prevent their oxidation. Oxidation of food materials containing fats and oils is known as rancidity, because of which they become unfit for consumption and develop bad odour. Normally, vitamin C and vitamin E are added as antioxidants. Certain complex organic molecules like BHA and BHT are also very commonly used as antioxidants.