The history and modern problems of free radical chemistry. 100 years of free radical chemistry

The history and development of free radical chemistry and its derivatives in Russia and other countries are presented here. Scientific work from Lavoisier and Gomberg to modern scientists is discussed. Many edifying and amusing moments in free radical chemistry are recalled in this review. A small excursion is made into the concept of radical stability. Numerous figures show that the chemical structures of free radicals are among the many beautiful aspects of modern organic chemistry. The review of the Russian grey literature on free radicals is of peculiar interest. The problems of priorities in free radicals have been studied. The exceptional perspectives of free radical chemistry are shown.