[ad_1] adjective Chemistry.
- (of a molecule) not superimposable on its mirror image.
noun
- the configuration or handedness (left or right) of an asymmetric, optically active chemical compoundAlso called: dissymmetry
1894, a hybrid coined by Lord Kelvin from Latinized comb. form of Greek kheir “hand” (from PIE *ghes- “hand;” see chiro-) + -al (1).
adj.
- Of or relating to the structural characteristic of a molecule that makes it impossible to superimpose it on its mirror image.
- The characteristic of a structure (usually a molecule) that makes it impossible to superimpose it on its mirror image. Also called handedness See also helicity invariance optical isomer.