Definition

Relating to a specific type of chemical reaction that involves the rearrangement of electrons in a cyclic manner, often occurring in organic chemistry.

Example

The pericyclic reaction is an important concept in understanding molecular transformations.

Conversation

Did you understand the pericyclic reactions we covered in class?

Not really, they seemed pretty complex to me.

I thought they were interesting, especially how they can be explained through symmetry.

Yeah, once you grasp the concept, they make a lot more sense!

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Pericyclic → It is formed from "peri-" (meaning around) and "cyclic" (from Greek "kyklos", meaning circle or ring). The term describes reactions that occur in a cyclic manner around a ring structure.

Memory Tip

Think of 'peri-' meaning 'around' and 'cyclic' relating to a 'circle' — this helps you remember that 'pericyclic' refers to reactions that happen in a circular or ring-like fashion.

Visually Confused Words