title: The chemistry of dioxygen and its reduction products.
abstract: The electronic properties of dioxygen are discussed with reference to its reactions in biological systems. In particular, the importance of its reduction to the superoxide ion is stressed. The physical and chemical properties of the superoxide ion are described and their relevance to its function in biochemical processes is emphasized. The relationship to other intermediates such as the hydroxyl radical is discussed.
mesh_terms: D055598:Chemical Phenomena; D002621:Chemistry; D004583:Electrons; D005609:Free Radicals; D006861:Hydrogen Peroxide; D010084:Oxidation-Reduction; D010100:Oxygen; D010544:Peroxidases / Q000378:metabolism; D013482:Superoxide Dismutase / Q000378:metabolism; D013481:Superoxides
chemical_list: D005609:Free Radicals; D013481:Superoxides; D006861:Hydrogen Peroxide; D010544:Peroxidases; D013482:Superoxide Dismutase; D010100:Oxygen