adjective describing a molecule that is superimposable on its mirror image; possessing no chirality
In mathematics, achiral objects do not have a distinct mirror image or handedness.
In organic chemistry, achiral molecules do not have a chiral center and are superimposable on their mirror image.
In physics, achiral systems do not exhibit chirality or handedness in their properties.
Achiral materials may exhibit different optical properties compared to chiral materials.
Achiral drugs may have different pharmacokinetic properties compared to their chiral counterparts.
Achiral compounds can be used as controls in experiments involving chiral molecules to determine the effects of chirality.
In chemistry, achiral molecules are those that do not have a chiral center and are superimposable on their mirror image. This term is commonly used in organic chemistry when discussing the symmetry of molecules.
Pharmacists may encounter the term achiral when discussing the properties of certain drugs or compounds. Understanding whether a molecule is achiral or chiral can be important in determining its biological activity and potential side effects.
Biologists may use the term achiral when studying the structure and function of biomolecules. In biological systems, chirality can play a significant role in the interactions between molecules, and distinguishing between chiral and achiral molecules is essential in understanding these processes.