adjective
- having a molecular structure that cannot be superimposed on its mirror image
Usage: chemistry; technical
Examples
- The chiral molecule exists in two forms that are mirror images of each other.
- Chiral compounds often have different biological activities.
- The drug contains a chiral center that affects its effectiveness.
- Scientists study chiral molecules to understand their optical properties.
- The chiral nature of amino acids is important in biochemistry.
- Chiral catalysts are used to produce specific molecular forms.