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Chirality - Meaning, Definition & English Examples

Chirality refers to the property of an object or molecule that cannot be superimposed on its mirror image, like left and right hands. It is important in chemistry and biology.

chirality

/kaɪˈræləti/ /kaɪˈrælɪti/

Definition:

The property of a molecule or object being non-superimposable on its mirror image.

Synonyms:

handedness, asymmetry, enantiomorphism

Part of Speech:

noun

Antonyms:

symmetry, achirality

Common Collocations:

molecular chirality, optical chirality, chiral center, chiral molecules, chiral symmetry

Derivatives:

chiral, chirally

Usage Tips:

Use "chirality" to describe asymmetry in molecules or objects that cannot align with their mirror images.

Common Phrases:

left-handed chirality, right-handed chirality, chiral compounds

Etymology:

From Greek "cheir" (hand) + "-ality," referring to handedness in molecules or structures.

Examples:

  • 1. The molecule exhibits chirality due to its asymmetric carbon atom.
  • 2. Chirality is crucial in pharmaceuticals because enantiomers can have different effects.
  • 3. The artist’s sculpture plays with chirality by using mirrored but non-identical forms.
  • 4. Scientists study chirality to understand the origins of life’s molecular preferences.

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