autoxidation
/ˌɔːtoʊˌɑːksɪˈdeɪʃən/
noun
- A chemical reaction in which a substance combines with oxygen from the air without the need for heat or a flame, often causing spoilage or decay.
- To prevent autoxidation, many foods are stored in airtight containers.
- Autoxidation causes butter to go rancid if left out too long.
- The autoxidation of iron leads to rust on metal surfaces.