An uncharged molecule (typically highly reactive and short-lived) having an unpaired valency electron.
Example sentencesExamples
- It is produced through a free radical polymerization reaction of styrene monomers.
- These free radicals are highly reactive chemically and can themselves alter molecules in the cell.
- In the free radical polymerization of ethylene to form polyethylene, a small amount of a peroxide is added to a large volume of ethylene.
- This free radical attacks the double bonds on other monomers creating a longer chain molecule and an additional free radical.
- It is well known that high-temperature free radical reactions can be quenched by the presence of nitric oxide, itself a free radical.