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Butylated hydroxytoluene (BHT) contains two bulky tert-butyl groups. Can it still work as an antioxidant if these two tert-butyl groups are removed ? Explain |
Answer» Solution :The fat in the food gets oxidised by `O_2` forming free radicals which spoil the food. BHT COMBINES with these free radicals to form a new very stable free RADICAL which does not react with fat molecules. As a RESULT, chain is broken and hence the food is preserved .  If the tert-butyl groups are removed , the phenols would SIMPLY couple when exposed to air or `O_2`.  When the bulky tert-butyl groups are present , the rings cannot come closeenough together for coupling. They are then free to trap free radicals produced by the oxidation of fats thereby preserving food. |
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