open chain

noun

: an arrangement of atoms represented in a structural formula by a chain whose ends are not joined so as to form a ring

Word History

First Known Use

1880, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of open chain was in 1880

Dictionary Entries Near open chain

opencast

open chain

open charge

See More Nearby Entries 

Cite this Entry

“Open chain.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/open%20chain. Accessed 24 Apr. 2024.

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Medical Definition

open chain

noun
: an arrangement of atoms represented in a structural formula by a chain whose ends are not joined so as to form a ring
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