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Carotene Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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carotene

[หˆkรฆrษ™หŒtiหn ]

Definition

Context #1 | Noun

nutrition, chemistry

Carotene is a naturally occurring pigment found in many plants, particularly in green and orange vegetables. It is a type of carotenoid that plays a crucial role in photosynthesis by absorbing light energy. Carotene is also a precursor to vitamin A, which is essential for vision, immune function, and skin health. The most common forms include alpha-carotene and beta-carotene. Consuming foods rich in carotene can have beneficial effects on overall health and may reduce the risk of chronic diseases.

Synonyms

carotenoid, vitamin A precursor.

Examples of usage

  • Carrots are rich in beta-carotene.
  • Spinach contains significant amounts of carotene.
  • Dietary carotene is important for maintaining good vision.
  • Eating fruits and vegetables high in carotene can enhance skin appearance.

Translations

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Interesting Facts

Nutrition

  • Carotene is a type of provitamin, which means it can be converted into vitamin A in the body, essential for good vision.
  • Dark green leafy vegetables also contain carotene, despite their lack of orange coloring, showcasing its diverse sources.

Biochemistry

  • Carotene plays an important role in photosynthesis, helping plants capture light energy and convert it into nutrients.
  • There are over 600 different types of carotenoids, with beta-carotene being the most well-known for its health benefits.

Pop Culture

  • Carotene-rich foods like carrots and sweet potatoes have inspired a variety of recipes and health trends in cooking shows and blogs.
  • The famous cartoon character Bugs Bunny is often associated with carrots, highlighting the fruit's cartoonish appeal and health benefits.

Health

  • Research suggests a diet high in carotene may reduce the risk of certain diseases, making it an integral part of nutrition science.
  • Carotene's antioxidant properties help protect the body from damage caused by free radicals, which can lead to chronic illnesses.

Origin of 'carotene'

Main points about word origin

  • The word 'carotene' comes from the Latin word for carrot, 'carota', reflecting its first discovery in carrots.
  • The suffix 'ene' indicates that carotene is a type of hydrocarbon, which is a compound made of hydrogen and carbon.

The word 'carotene' comes from the Latin 'carota', which means 'carrot'. The use of the term originated in the late 19th century when scientists began to study the chemical constituents of plants and their effects on health. Originally isolated from carrots in the 1830s, carotene attracted attention for its vibrant color and nutritional properties. Its identification as a provitamin A began in the 1910s when researchers discovered that it could be converted into vitamin A in the human body. Since then, carotene has been recognized for its antioxidant properties and its role in human health, leading to increased interest in dietary sources of carotene-rich foods. Today, carotene is widely studied in nutritional science and is often included in dietary supplements.

Word Frequency Rank

With rank #18,752, this word belongs to specialized vocabulary. While not common in everyday speech, it enriches your ability to express complex ideas.