noun
- chemical compounds containing the superoxide ion (O2-), which has one unpaired electron and is highly reactive
Usage: chemistry; plural form
Examples
- Superoxides are formed when alkali metals react with oxygen.
- Potassium superoxide is used in oxygen-generating equipment.
- The researcher studied how superoxides damage cellular components.
- Superoxides play a role in oxidative stress within living organisms.
- Antioxidants help neutralize harmful superoxides in the body.
- The laboratory safely disposed of the reactive superoxides.