open chain

/ˌoʊpən tʃeɪn/
IPA guide

Definitions of open chain
  1. noun
    a chain of atoms in a molecule whose ends are not joined to form a ring
    see moresee less
    antonyms:
    closed chain
    (chemistry) a chain of atoms in a molecule that forms a closed loop
    types:
    branched chain
    an open chain of atoms with one or more side chains attached to it
    straight chain
    an open chain of atoms with no side chains
    type of:
    chain, chemical chain
    (chemistry) a series of linked atoms (generally in an organic molecule)
Cite this entry
Style:
MLA
  • MLA
  • APA
  • Chicago

Copy citation
DISCLAIMER: These example sentences appear in various news sources and books to reflect the usage of the word ‘open chain'. Views expressed in the examples do not represent the opinion of Vocabulary.com or its editors. Send us feedback
Word Family