Singlet oxygen
Singlet Oxygen
Singlet oxygen (pronunciation: /ˈsɪŋɡlɪt ˈɒksɪdʒən/) is a high-energy form of oxygen that is more reactive than the normal, triplet form. It is a diradical and is notable for its ability to cause oxidative damage to cells.
Etymology
The term "singlet oxygen" comes from the fact that this form of oxygen has a single, unpaired electron, unlike the more common triplet form of oxygen, which has two unpaired electrons. The term "oxygen" comes from the Greek words "oxy" meaning sharp, and "genes" meaning born, referring to the sharp taste of acids which were thought to contain oxygen.
Properties
Singlet oxygen is a diradical, meaning it has two unpaired electrons. This makes it highly reactive and capable of causing oxidative damage to cells. It is produced in the body as a byproduct of various biological processes, including photosynthesis and the immune response.
Related Terms
- Oxygen: A chemical element with symbol O and atomic number 8. It is a member of the chalcogen group on the periodic table and is a highly reactive nonmetal and oxidizing agent that readily forms compounds with most elements.
- Diradical: A molecule or ion that has two unpaired electrons. Diradicals are often highly reactive due to the presence of these unpaired electrons.
- Oxidative stress: An imbalance between the production of free radicals and the ability of the body to counteract or detoxify their harmful effects through neutralization by antioxidants.
- Photosynthesis: The process used by plants, algae and certain bacteria to harness energy from sunlight and turn it into chemical energy.
- Immune response: The body's defensive reaction to invasion by bacteria, viruses, or other foreign substances.
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Singlet oxygen
- Wikipedia's article - Singlet oxygen
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