The Collaborative International Dictionary
open-chain \open-chain\ adj. (Chemistry) not cyclic; having no rings of atoms within the molecular structure; having an open chain structure. Opposite of cyclic. [Narrower terms: {aliphatic ]
Syn: acyclic.
Wiktionary
a. (context organic chemistry English) Of a class of organic compounds in which the carbon atoms are arranged in an open chain. n. 1 A compound of this type. 2 (context chiefly in the plural English) A petroleum fraction containing no aromatic compounds
WordNet
adj. having carbon atoms linked in open chains
Wikipedia
- redirect aliphatic compound
Usage examples of "aliphatic".
Short-chain aliphatic compounds are elaborated by female monkeys in response to estradiol, and these are of consuming interest to the males.
They lie here trapped in glass, little two-carbon aliphatic molecules that can drown regret, banish fear, and ease the ache of conscience.
Here, under nearly three times Earth's gravity, the molecules were forced to assemble in strict aliphatic order, but in cross section their arrangement was hexagonal, as though the stuff would become an aromatic compound if only it could.
Here, under nearly three times Earths gravity, the molecules were forced to assemble in strict aliphatic order, but in cross section their arrangement was hexagonal, as though the stuff would become an aromatic compound if only it could.