Autoxidizer

/ɔːˈtɒksɪdaɪzə/ noun

Definition

A substance that causes or accelerates autoxidation in itself or other materials through spontaneous reaction with oxygen.

Etymology

From autoxidize + -er (suffix for agent). Chemistry term from the 20th century for substances promoting oxidation reactions.

Kelly Says

Some autoxidizers are sneaky—copper and iron can actually speed up the autoxidation of nearby fats and oils, which is why cooking oils stored in metal containers go bad faster than in glass.

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