Q24.59 P - Chemistry: Molecular Nature Of Matter And Change

Question

Why is .OH more dangerous than ${\mathbf{OH}}^{-}$  in an organism?

Step-by-Step Solution

Answer

Hydroxyl radicals assault and damage the bio molecules that surround the cell.

Step 1: Radical

Radical is the species that has a free unpaired electron. Due to the presence of free electron, it attains tremendous reactivity.

Step 2: Explanation

The hydroxyl radical _{$(.\text{OH})$}, is the neutral form of the hydroxide ion $(-{\text{OH}}^{-})$ . Hydroxyl radicals attack essential cell components. The bio molecules surrounding is being damaged since the structures are connected with their functions.

Hence Hydroxyl radicals attack the cell and destroys its surrounding bio molecules.