Question

The problem with free radicals is that they tend to

Group of answer choices

activate protons and become charged compounds

attract lightening.

have extra electrons, making them acidic

release electrons that cause damage to surrounding tissue

steal electrons from neighboring compounds

Answer 1

Option 4 - release electrons that cause damage to surrounding tissue

The free radicles have an extra unpaired electron that make it charged particle and impart high reactivity to it. In the tissues the free radicle due to its high reactivity bind to macromolecules like proteins, nucleic acids by donating electron and bring alteration in those molecules and damage the tissues. One such example is cancer caused by alteration of DNA by carcinogens (free radicles like peroxides, superoxides).

• The free radicle itself is charged particle and not after activating protons
• The ability to donate electron makes it basic
• Free radicles donate electrons instead of stealing