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polynuclear

Upper-Intermediate (B2)

IPA: /ˌpɒlɪˈnjuːklɪə/

KK: /ˌpɒlɪˈnjuːklɪə/

adjective
Definition

Describing something that has more than one nucleus, often used in chemistry to refer to compounds with multiple cyclic structures.


Example

The polynuclear compound exhibited unique chemical properties due to its multiple nuclei.


Conversation
Sloth A
Have you ever heard of polynuclear compounds in chemistry?
Sloth B
Yeah, I think they involve structures with multiple nuclei, right?
Sloth A
Exactly! They're fascinating, especially how they relate to benzene rings.
Sloth B
Totally! I love how complex chemistry can get with those types of molecules.

Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
multinuclear
polycyclic
complex
Antonyms
mononuclear
simple
single
Root Explanation

Polynuclear → It is formed from "poly-" (meaning many) and "nucleus" (from Latin, meaning kernel or core). The word "polynuclear" refers to something that has many nuclei or cores.

Memory Tip

Think of 'poly-' meaning many and 'nucleus' meaning core — so polynuclear describes something with many cores.

Visually Confused Words
pronuclear
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