The reaction of selenium (IV) with ascorbic acid: Its relevance in aqueous and soil systems

► Rate expression for Se(IV) reduction by ascorbic acid under environmental conditions. ► Effect of Cu(II), Fe(III) and Mn(IV) on Se(IV)-ascorbic acid interactions. ► Half lives for Se(IV) in the presence of ascorbic acid in weakly acid solution. ► Effect of ascorbic acid interactions with Se(IV) on its mobilization. ► Ascorbic acid reduces or oxidizes Se(IV) depending on Mn(IV)/ascorbic acid ratio.