Chapter 9, Problem 7Q

Interpretation Introduction

Interpretation:

The primary products that are formed by the photochemical air oxidation of lycopene should be speculated.

Concept introduction:

Oxidation of a species involves the loss of electrons by that species and reduction of a species involves the gain of electrons by that species. The oxidation number is defined as the formal charge an atom would gain if all the bonds attached to it in a compound are heterolytically cleaved. Oxidation number can be a positive or negative number but cannot be fractional.