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Basic Technical IVT Commonly tested

Reactive oxygen species scavenging capacity

noun

Pronunciation: /riˈæktɪv ˈɒksɪdʒən ˈspiːʃiz ˈskævɪndʒɪŋ kəˈpæsɪti/

The plant cell's ability to neutralize and remove excess free radicals through enzymatic and non-enzymatic pathways, including superoxide dismutase, catalase, and glutathione peroxidase activity. This capacity is critical for mitigating damage from stress-induced oxidative imbalance.

Plain English

The plant's ability to remove harmful free radical molecules that form during environmental stress.

Etymology & History

Origin languageLatin, Old English
Rootreactus (Latin = acted upon) + scavenger (Old English = to inspect)
First recorded use1990s
Usage frequencyVery common

Usage

"Salt-tolerant genotypes demonstrated significantly higher reactive oxygen species scavenging capacity than salt-sensitive cultivars."

Style guide notes: Specify measured enzyme activities and non-enzymatic components when quantifying scavenging capacity.

Also known as

ROS scavenging free radical neutralization capacity

Contrasted with

ROS accumulation oxidative stress susceptibility

Related Terms

Frequently Asked Questions

Which enzymes contribute to ROS scavenging capacity?

Superoxide dismutase, catalase, peroxidases, and glutathione-S-transferases are primary enzymatic antioxidants.

How do environmental stresses affect ROS scavenging capacity?

Stress conditions increase ROS production, depleting scavenging enzymes and reducing the plant's defensive capacity.

Why Test Candidates on This?

Fundamental parameter for evaluating plant resilience to multiple abiotic stresses including drought, salinity, and temperature extremes.

Required skill level: Mid

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