What is "cross-linkage"

cross-link \cross-link\ n. (Chem., Biochem.) a covalent bond that links two chains of atoms, or two sections of one chain, in a polymeric molecule; the cross-link is created by a third bond in a monomer unit in addition to the two bonds forming the polymeric chain; -- a cross-link may be internal to a single chain, rather than between two otherwise unlinked chains; as, ultraviolet irradiation creates cross-links between the two chains of a DNA double helix; many enzymes have cross-links formed by disulfide bonds; polystyrene resins have their porosity controlled by the proportion of cross-links. Called also cross-linkage.

Syn: cross-linkage.

cross-linkage \cross-linkage\ n. same as cross-link, n.

n. a side bond that links two adjacent chains of atoms in a complex molecule [syn: cross-link]