antiparallel
Học thuậtThân thiện
Definition
- Adjective:
- (Especially of vectors) parallel but oppositely directed: Describes two lines or vectors that run in exactly the same direction but point toward opposite ends. They have the same slope or direction but opposite orientations.
Usage Examples
- Adjective:
- In DNA, the two strands run in antiparallel directions.
- The magnetic fields were configured in an antiparallel arrangement.
- The two forces were antiparallel, canceling each other out.
Advanced Usage
- Scientific Context: The term is most common in physics, mathematics, and molecular biology to describe directional opposition.
- The researchers studied the antiparallel spin states of the electrons.
- Extended Use: Can be applied metaphorically to describe opposing trends or forces that are aligned yet contrary.
- Their political ideologies were antiparallel, leading to constant deadlock.
Variants and Related Words
- Antiparallelism (n): The state or condition of being antiparallel.
- The antiparallelism of the strands is crucial for DNA replication.
- Parallel (adj): Running side by side and having the same direction continuously. (This is the base concept without the opposing direction).
Synonyms
- Oppositely directed
- Counterparallel (less common)
Antonyms
- Parallel (in the same direction)
- Collinear (lying on the same line, direction may be same or opposite)
Related Phrases/Idioms
(This term is highly technical and does not have common idiomatic or phrasal verb uses.)
Adjective
- (especially of vectors) parallel but oppositely directed
- antiparallel vectors