Free radicals are highly reactive atoms or molecules that have unpaired electrons in their outermost shell. This unpaired electron makes them unstable and highly reactive, as they seek to pair up with another electron to achieve stability. Free radicals can be formed through various processes, including normal metabolic activities in the body, exposure to radiation, pollution, cigarette smoke, and other environmental factors. In biological contexts, free radicals are often associated with oxidative stress, a condition where the production of free radicals exceeds the body’s ability to neutralize them with antioxidants. This imbalance can lead to cellular damage, contributing to aging and various diseases, such as cancer, cardiovascular diseases, and neurodegenerative disorders. Despite their negative reputation, free radicals also play essential roles in the body, such as in cell signaling and immune responses. Antioxidants, which can donate an electron to free radicals without becoming destabilized themselves, are crucial in mitigating the potential damage caused by free radicals, maintaining cellular health and function.