Definition

A type of chemical compound that contains a ring structure made up of at least one atom that is not carbon, such as nitrogen, oxygen, or sulfur.

Example

Many pharmaceuticals are based on heterocycles due to their unique properties.

Conversation

Have you ever heard of a heterocycle?

Yeah, I think it's a type of chemical compound, right?

Exactly! They have a ring structure with different atoms.

That sounds interesting! I should read more about them.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Heterocycle → It is formed from "hetero-" (from Greek "heteros", meaning different) and "cycle" (from Greek "kyklos", meaning circle or ring). The word refers to a ring structure in chemistry that contains at least one atom that is different from carbon, hence the term 'different ring'.

Memory Tip

Think of 'different' ('hetero-') and 'ring' ('cycle') to remember that a heterocycle is a ring structure with different types of atoms.

Visually Confused Words