isologous

isologous

A chemist compares two isologous compounds in the laboratory.

Definition
  1. Adjective (Chemistry):
    • Relating to a series of compounds with similar structure but differing by a constant increment: "isologous" describes a relationship between chemical compounds that belong to the same homologous series, where each successive member differs by a fixed unit (e.g., a CH₂ group). This term is often used in organic chemistry to refer to compounds with analogous molecular structures.
Usage Examples
  • Adjective:
    • The series of alkanes—methane, ethane, propane—are isologous compounds. (They share a similar structure, each differing by a CH₂ group.)
    • In polymer chemistry, isologous monomers form chains with repeating units. (The monomers have analogous molecular frameworks.)
Advanced Usage
  • "isologous series": a sequence of chemical compounds where each member is related to the next by a constant structural change.
    • The isologous series of alcohols includes methanol, ethanol, and propanol. (Each has one more CH₂ group than the previous.)
Variants and Related Words

  • Isology (noun): the state or quality of being isologous.

    • The isology of these hydrocarbons simplifies their study. (Their structural similarity makes analysis easier.)

  • Isologous (adj): also used in biochemistry to describe proteins or nucleic acids with analogous sequences or functions.

    • The two enzymes are isologous in their active sites. (They have similar catalytic regions.)
Synonyms
  • Homologous: having a similar structure or position, especially in a series.
  • Analogous: comparable in certain respects, often in function or form.
Related Idioms
  • Isologous relationship: a direct, structurally parallel connection between compounds.
    • The isologous relationship between these molecules allows for predictable reactivity. (Their structural similarity dictates how they behave chemically.)
Phrasal Verbs
  • None directly applicable: "isologous" is a technical adjective and does not form phrasal verbs in standard English.
Additional Notes
  • The term is primarily used in scientific contexts, especially chemistry and biochemistry, and is not common in everyday language. It contrasts with "heterologous" (having different structure or origin).