Step 1: Understanding the Concept:
Lipid oxidation is a free-radical chain reaction (initiation, propagation, termination) that causes oxidative rancidity in oils.
Antioxidants are chemical substances added to oils to retard or prevent this oxidation process.
Step 2: Detailed Explanation:
- Propyl Gallate: A synthetic food-grade antioxidant. It acts as a primary antioxidant by donating hydrogen atoms to free radicals, terminating the lipid autoxidation chain reaction before rancidity develops.
- UV Light and Copper (a transition metal): Act as powerful pro-oxidants that accelerate the initiation phase of autoxidation.
- Moisture: Can catalyze hydrolytic rancidity in oils.
Step 3: Final Answer:
The compound that prevents oil oxidation is Propyl gallate, corresponding to option (C).