Definition of Oxidation:
Oxidation is the loss of electrons from a molecule, often involving free radicals or reactions with oxygen.
Mechanism:
Free radicals generated by heat, light, or metal ions initiate chain reactions, resulting in oxidative degradation.
Examples:
Example Reaction (Oxidation of Phenol Derivatives):
Example Reaction (Oxidation of Aldehydes to Carboxylic Acids):
Prevention Strategies:
Use of antioxidants (e.g., ascorbic acid, sodium metabisulfite).
Packaging in oxygen-impermeable materials.
Inert gases (e.g., nitrogen) in containers to displace oxygen.
Chelating agents (e.g., EDTA) to remove metal ions that catalyze oxidation.
Light-resistant packaging (amber glass bottles).