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isomers

pl. n. forms of molecules that are identical in chemical composition but differ in the spatial orientation of their atoms (i.e., they are stereoisomers). Enantiomers are stereoisomers that exist in pairs as mirror images. The two enantiomers of a pair rotate the plane of polarized light in opposite directions: L forms produce leftward or counterclockwise rotation (levorotation), whereas D forms produce rightward or clockwise rotation (dextrorotation). In general, L forms tend to have biological activity.

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Psychology term of the day

May 9th 2024

agape

agape

n. a complex form of love involving feelings of tenderness; protectiveness; self-denial; and aesthetic preference for the features, gestures, speech, and other traits of a person. The term, which derives from a Greek word meaning “brotherly love,” is sometimes used to denote an unselfish love as taught by such religious figures as Jesus and the Buddha.