straight-chain

[streyt-cheyn]

Phonetic (Standard)IPA

noun

Chemistry.

an open chain of atoms, usually carbon, with no side chains attached to it.

straight chain

noun

Compare branched chain
1. an open chain of atoms in a molecule with no attached side chains
2. ( as modifier )
  a straight-chain hydrocarbon

straight chain

An arrangement of atoms of the same type that forms an unbranched open chain. Propane is a straight-chain compound with a chain of three carbon atoms.

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Word History and Origins

Origin of straight chain¹

First recorded in 1925–30

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Example Sentences

Examples have not been reviewed.

The difference between these two comes down to the placement of a hydrogen atom; cis fats, found in natural foods like fish or walnuts, have a kink in their structure caused by two side-by-side hydrogen atoms, whereas trans fats, found in processed foods like margarine or anything fried, have a straight-chain structure caused by two opposing hydrogen atoms.

From

His work also led to new methods to convert “straight-chain” hydrocarbons into molecules with branched structures, which resulted in higher octane ratings and cleaner-burning fuel.

From

Secondly, nitric acid oxidation opens up these ring structures, completely converting them into straight-chain adipic acid.

From

Evidence of their prodigious activity was measured in a depression of nitrates in the water, Hazen says, and a continuous loss of straight-chain oil hydrocarbons known as alkanes—first the shorter ones and then the longer hydrocarbons.

From

straight bill of lading straight chair

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