Final answer:
Vitamin E, or tocopherol, is the substance described. It is an antioxidant stored in adipose tissue and is vital for CNS maintenance. Plant oils are its primary source.
Step-by-step explanation:
The compound described in the student's question is vitamin E, commonly referred to as tocopherol. This fat-soluble vitamin is a potent antioxidant that helps to protect cells from the damage caused by free radicals, which can contribute to the development of cardiovascular disease and cancer. The best sources of vitamin E are plant oils like wheat germ oil, sunflower oil, and safflower oil. In the human body, it helps maintain the central nervous system (CNS) and is stored in adipose tissue—body fat used to store energy and provide insulation and cushioning to the body. Adipose tissue is mainly composed of triglycerides and comes in two forms: white adipose tissue and brown adipose tissue. While white adipose tissue is more abundant and responsible for storing energy and insulation, brown adipose tissue, which is more common in infants, is involved in the thermogenic process where it helps in metabolizing fat to release heat.