Glossary – D

Decalin: An example of a fused ring. A decalin is effectively two cyclohexane rings joined through two carbon atoms. They occur in cis and trans formations. Defect: This is a discontinuity in the otherwise ideal lattice in a solid. Degeneracy: The existence in a system of different wavefunctions that correspond to the same energy. Degree … Read more

Glossary – C

Cahn-Ingold-Prelog Rules: Rules which use the idea of priority of groups to define stereochemical configurations. Calomel Electrode: A reference electrode based on the Hg/HgCl redox couple, which is more convenient to use in standard reduction potential determination than the standard hydrogen electrode. Carbanion: A molecular ion with a negative charge localised on a carbon atom. … Read more

Glossary – B

Band Gap: This is the difference in energy between bands formed from the overlap of orbitals of different symmetry, though it is typically taken to be the energy difference between the highest fully occupied and the lowest fully unoccupied bands. Band: A band is formed when there is extended overlap of molecular orbitals in a … Read more

Glossary – A

Absorption spectroscopy: Generally, spectroscopy that relies upon measuring the radiation absorbed by a sample as it is excited to higher energy levels. Absorption spectroscopy: Generally, spectroscopy that relies upon measuring the radiation absorbed by a sample as it is excited to higher energy levels. Achiral: Lacking chirality. i.e. having no stereocentre. Acidic Proton: A hydrogen … Read more