RACEMATION Meaning and
Definition
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Racemation, also known as racemization, is a term primarily used in the field of chemistry and biochemistry, specifically in the study of organic compounds. It refers to a chemical process wherein a chiral molecule or isomer undergoes a transformation or reaction that results in the equalization or randomization of its stereoisomeric forms.
Chiral molecules have a unique property of existing in two mirror-image forms, known as enantiomers. These enantiomers differ in their spatial arrangement, and when undergoing racemation, they undergo a process through which the original chiral property is eradicated, leading to the creation of an equal mix of both enantiomers. This equalization can occur due to various factors such as heat, light, or catalytic agents.
Racemation often occurs due to the breaking and reformation of chemical bonds within a chiral compound, which can result in the conversion of one enantiomer to its mirror image. This process can have significant implications in various scientific fields, including pharmacology, where the interactions between chiral drugs and biological systems may change after racemation. Additionally, racemation has been studied in the fields of paleontology and archeology, where it can provide valuable insights into the age and preservation of organic materials.
In summary, racemation is a chemical process that induces the equalization or randomization of the enantiomers in a chiral molecule, leading to the loss of its chiral property.
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A cluster, as of grapes; their cultivation.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
Common Misspellings for RACEMATION
- rcemation
- recamation
- eacemation
- dacemation
- facemation
- tacemation
- 5acemation
- 4acemation
- rzcemation
- rscemation
- rwcemation
- rqcemation
- raxemation
- ravemation
- rafemation
- rademation
- racwmation
- racsmation
- racdmation
- racrmation
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