terpene

Thân thiện

A scientist examines a terpene sample under a laboratory lamp.

Definition

1. Noun:
   • An unsaturated hydrocarbon obtained from plants: A terpene is a large and diverse class of organic compounds, produced primarily by plants (especially conifers), and some insects. They are the major components of many plant resins and essential oils, giving them distinctive scents and flavors. Terpenes are built from repeating units of a five-carbon molecule called isoprene.

Usage Examples

• Noun:
  • Limonene is a common terpene found in citrus peels.
  • The scent of pine trees comes from a terpene called pinene.
  • Many terpenes have potential therapeutic properties.

Advanced Usage

• "Terpene profile": Refers to the specific combination and concentration of terpenes in a plant, which determines its unique aroma and effects.
  • The terpene profile of this lavender essential oil is very complex.

Variants and Related Words

• Terpenoid (n): A modified terpene, often containing additional functional groups like oxygen. Many terpenoids are biologically active.
  • Menthol is a well-known terpenoid found in mint plants.

Synonyms

• Isoprenoid: A broader term encompassing terpenes and their derivatives.
• Essential oil component: A descriptive phrase for a constituent of plant-derived aromatic oils.

Related Phrases

• "Monoterpene": A terpene consisting of two isoprene units (10 carbon atoms).

  • Linalool is a monoterpene alcohol with a floral scent.

• "Sesquiterpene": A terpene consisting of three isoprene units (15 carbon atoms).

  • Farnesene is a sesquiterpene found in apple skins.

Học thuật

Noun

1. an unsaturated hydrocarbon obtained from plants