Answer to Question #160184 in Chemistry for Shania

Question

Please help me with how to prevent oxidation in vitamins. I m really need the answer cause it is in my assignment

Answer 1

Oxygen is a highly reactive component that forms free radicals. Free radicals are unstable due to the presence of an unpaired electron and they reach out to capture electrons from other substances in order to neutralize them. Antioxidants are chemicals (naturally occurring and man-made) that prevent oxidation of other molecules, stabilization of free radicals, and slows down cell damage. As a result, antioxidants can be used to prevent the oxidation of vitamins. In particular, some vitamins, including vitamin C and E, can serve as antioxidants and can be used to prevent the oxidation of other vitamins.