Written by the Fiveable Content Team • Last updated September 2025
Verified for the 2026 exam
Verified for the 2026 exam•Written by the Fiveable Content Team • Last updated September 2025
Definition
A superoxide is an ion with the chemical formula O2^-. It consists of two oxygen atoms bonded together, with one unpaired electron making it highly reactive.
Related terms
Radical: This refers to molecules or ions like superoxides that have unpaired electrons, making them highly reactive.
Dioxygen Species: These are chemical species containing two oxygen atoms; superoxide is one example of a dioxygen species.
Antioxidants: These are substances that can neutralize harmful radicals like superoxides in biological systems.