RACEMIC Meaning and
Definition
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Racemic is an adjective used in chemistry to describe a mixture that contains equal amounts of two enantiomers, which are mirror-image isomers. Enantiomers are stereo-isomers that are non-superimposable and have the same chemical composition, but differ in their 3D arrangement of atoms. In a racemic mixture, one enantiomer rotates polarized light to the left (levorotatory or “–” enantiomer) and the other enantiomer rotates polarized light to the right (dextrorotatory or “+” enantiomer). As a result, the racemic mixture as a whole does not rotate polarized light and is considered optically inactive.
Racemic mixtures can be created through a chemical synthesis process or can occur naturally. They often arise when a reaction lacks stereoselectivity, where both enantiomers are formed with equal probability. Racemic mixtures have distinct physical properties from their pure enantiomers, including different boiling points, melting points, and bioactivity. Consequently, separating racemic mixtures into their enantiomeric components is crucial in many pharmaceutical applications.
In summary, racemic refers to a mixture containing equal amounts of two enantiomers, rendering it optically inactive. It is an important concept in chemistry, particularly in the study of stereochemistry and the synthesis of pharmaceutical compounds.
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A peculiar acid found in the tartar obtained from the grapes of certain vineyards on the Rhine, called paratartaric acid.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
Common Misspellings for RACEMIC
Etymology of RACEMIC
The word "racemic" originated from the Latin term "racemus", which means "cluster" or "bundle of grapes". The suffix "-ic" in English is used to indicate a quality or state. In chemistry, "racemic" refers to a compound that consists of an equal mixture of two enantiomers, which have the same molecular formula but differ in their spatial arrangement. The term was introduced by French chemist Louis Pasteur in the mid-19th century when he discovered that some substances could exist in both left-handed (levorotatory) and right-handed (dextrorotatory) forms. The term "racemic" was used to describe the mixtures of these enantiomers as they resembled a cluster or a bunch, similar to grapes on a vine.
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