CATENATION Meaning and
Definition
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Catenation is a term used in chemistry to describe the phenomenon of elements bonding together in long chains or repetitive patterns. It refers to the ability of atoms to form strong covalent bonds with other atoms of the same element, resulting in the creation of long molecular structures or polymers.
In such catenation processes, the atoms interconnect through the sharing of electron pairs, leading to the formation of stable bonds. This property is particularly evident among carbon atoms, giving rise to the vast diversity of organic compounds. Carbon's unique catenation abilities allow for the creation of intricate chains or rings, providing the basis for an immense variety of biological molecules, fuels, plastics, and numerous other substances.
Other elements that exhibit catenation include silicon, sulfur, nitrogen, and phosphorus, although to a lesser extent than carbon. These elements can also form long chains or networks through the sharing of electrons, resulting in compounds with distinct properties and applications.
Catenation is a fundamental concept in organic chemistry and plays a crucial role in understanding the structures and behaviors of molecules. It is through the intricate catenation of atoms that the remarkable complexity and diversity of compounds in the natural world and in human-made materials are possible.
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Regular connection, as the links of a chain.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
Common Misspellings for CATENATION
- xatenation
- vatenation
- fatenation
- datenation
- cztenation
- cstenation
- cwtenation
- cqtenation
- cafenation
- cagenation
- cayenation
- ca6enation
- ca5enation
- catwnation
- catsnation
- catdnation
- cat4nation
- cat3nation
- catebation
Etymology of CATENATION
The word "catenation" is derived from the Latin word "catena", meaning "chain" or "link". The suffix "-tion" is a noun-forming suffix in English that signifies the act or state of a verb or the result of it. Therefore, "catenation" literally refers to the act or process of chaining or linking things together.
Similar spelling words for CATENATION
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