autoxidize, v. Biochem.
(ɔːˈtɒksɪdaɪz)
[f. auto-1 + oxidize v.]
intr. To oxidize by direct combination with oxygen at ordinary temperatures (Webster, 1909). Hence autoxiˈdizable a., capable of oxidizing by contact with the air; autoxiˈdation, -iˈzation, oxidation by direct combination with oxygen; auˈtoxidator, a substance in an active cell, oxidizable by water.
| 1883 Science 30 Mar. 229/2 Autoxidation in living vegetable cells. Ibid., Autoxidizable substances,..those bodies which, at a low temperature, and by the action of free, passive oxygen, can be oxidized. Ibid. 230/1 In every active cell, autoxidators are formed; that is, substances which, at a low temperature, and by the action of molecular oxygen, can be oxidized in the presence of water. 1948 Jrnl. Brit. Interplan. Soc. VII. 142 The so-called autoxidation process which is based on the alternate oxidation and reduction of certain organic compounds. 1956 Nature 21 Jan. 129/1 It is characteristic of N-dialkylhydroxylamines to autoxidize very rapidly in aqueous alkali. Ibid. 17 Mar. 527/2 All of these ferric chelates..are very rapidly autoxidizable. |