long-chain
Học thuậtThân thiện
Definition
- Adjective:
- Having relatively long chains of atoms in a molecule: Describes a molecule, especially in organic chemistry, that contains a sequence of connected atoms (like carbon atoms) that is lengthy compared to other similar molecules.
Usage
- The term "long-chain" is primarily used as a scientific adjective, especially in chemistry and biochemistry, to classify molecules based on the length of their carbon or hydrocarbon chains.
- It typically modifies nouns like "fatty acids," "hydrocarbons," or "polymers."
- Example: "Long-chain fatty acids are an important component of cell membranes."
Examples
- Adjective:
- Saturated long-chain fatty acids, such as stearic acid, are solid at room temperature.
- The properties of a polymer can change significantly between its short-chain and long-chain forms.
- This detergent is effective because it contains long-chain alkyl benzenesulfonates.
Advanced Usage
- "Long-chain" vs. "Short-chain" or "Medium-chain": These are comparative terms used to categorize molecules. The specific number of carbon atoms that defines "long" varies by context (e.g., in fatty acids, long-chain often means 13-21 carbons).
- Nutritional studies often compare the metabolic effects of medium-chain triglycerides (MCTs) and long-chain triglycerides (LCTs).
Variants and Related Words
- Long-chain molecule (n): A specific molecule characterized by having a long chain of atoms.
- Polyethylene is a common long-chain molecule.
- Long-chained: An alternative, less common adjectival form with the same meaning.
- Long-chained hydrocarbons are found in crude oil.
Synonyms
- High-molecular-weight (in some contexts, though this refers more to mass than specifically chain length).
- Macromolecular (implies large molecules, which often have long chains).
Antonyms
- Short-chain
- Low-molecular-weight (in some contexts)
Adjective
- of molecules having relatively long chains of atoms in a molecule