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acylation

Upper-Intermediate (B2)

IPA: //ˌeɪsɪˈleɪʃən//

KK: /ˈeɪsɪleɪʃən/

noun
Definition

This is the process of attaching a specific group of atoms, known as an acyl group, to a chemical compound. This process is important in various chemical reactions and can change the properties of the compound.


Example

The acylation of the compound resulted in a more reactive product.


Conversation
Sloth A
Have you heard about the process of acylation in organic chemistry?
Sloth B
Yeah, I think it has to do with adding an acyl group to molecules, right?
Sloth A
Exactly! I find it fascinating how it changes the properties of compounds.
Sloth B
For sure! It’s amazing how such a small change can have a big impact.

Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
acylation
modification
substitution
Antonyms
deacylation
removal
dismantling
Root Explanation

Acylation is formed from "acyl" (derived from the Latin "acylus", meaning a radical derived from an organic acid) and "-ation" (a suffix used to form nouns indicating an action or process). The term refers to the process of introducing an acyl group into a compound.

Memory Tip

Think of 'acyl' as a part derived from an acid, and '-ation' indicating a process. So, acylation is the process of adding an acid-derived group to something.

Visually Confused Words
acetylation
alation
maculation
jaculation
allylation
alkylation
vacation
palation
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