Autoxidator

/ˌɔːtəʊˈɒksɪdeɪtə/ noun

Definition

A substance that undergoes autoxidation or a substance that catalyzes the process of autoxidation in other materials.

Etymology

From autoxidation + -or (suffix for agent or instrument). Chemistry term from early-to-mid 20th century describing reactive substances.

Kelly Says

Autoxidators include things like vitamin C and certain oils—they're so eager to react with oxygen that they actually help other things oxidize, making them both victims and perpetrators of chemical decay.

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