Definition

Describing a type of polymer or macromolecule where the arrangement of its parts is random and lacks a regular structure.

Example

The atactic polymer has a unique property due to its random arrangement of subunits.

Conversation

Have you heard about the new polymer they developed?

No, what's special about it?

It's actually atactic, which means the structure is completely random.

That sounds interesting! I wonder how that affects its properties.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Atactic is formed from "a-" (meaning without) and "taktos" (from Greek, meaning arranged or ordered). The word describes something that is disordered or lacking arrangement.

Memory Tip

Think of 'without' ('a-') order or arrangement ('taktos') to remember that atactic means disordered.

Visually Confused Words