The Chemical Properties of Singlet Molecular Oxygen and Its Importance in Biological Systems

Typical chemical reactions of singlet molecular oxygen with organic substances as well as its disruptive influence on biological systems (the photodynamic effect) are described. The involvement of singlet oxygen in carcinogenesis is demonstrated. A new (luminescence) method of detecting singlet oxygen in solution is discussed. The role of singlet molecular oxygen as an oxidant in polluted city air is noted. The bibliography includes 232 references.