rhizoverbBeta
DictionaryradicalUnpaired electron
noun

radical

An atom or group of atoms with an unpaired electron.

The reaction produces a free radical.

Etymology
radicalLatinof a root

Radical means of a root. Chemistry first used it for a constituent unit, with the modern free-radical sense specifying an atom or group that has an unpaired electron.

More examples

  • A radical can react quickly with nearby molecules.
  • The diagram shows an unpaired electron on the radical.
  • Researchers measured the concentration of oxygen radicals.

Forms

radical · radicals

Similar words

ion
Has a net electrical charge rather than necessarily an unpaired electron.