straight-chain

American  

[streyt-cheyn] / ˈstreɪtˈtʃeɪn /

noun

Chemistry.

1. an open chain of atoms, usually carbon, with no side chains attached to it.

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straight chain British  

noun

1. Compare branched chain

   1. an open chain of atoms in a molecule with no attached side chains

   2. ( as modifier )

      a straight-chain hydrocarbon

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straight chain Scientific  

1. An arrangement of atoms of the same type that forms an unbranched open chain. Propane is a straight-chain compound with a chain of three carbon atoms.

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Etymology

Origin of straight-chain

First recorded in 1925–30

Example Sentences

The difference between these two comes down to the placement of a hydrogen atom; cis fats, found in natural foods like fish or walnuts, have a kink in their structure caused by two side-by-side hydrogen atoms, whereas trans fats, found in processed foods like margarine or anything fried, have a straight-chain structure caused by two opposing hydrogen atoms.

From Science Daily

His work also led to new methods to convert “straight-chain” hydrocarbons into molecules with branched structures, which resulted in higher octane ratings and cleaner-burning fuel.

From Washington Post

Secondly, nitric acid oxidation opens up these ring structures, completely converting them into straight-chain adipic acid.

From Scientific American

Evidence of their prodigious activity was measured in a depression of nitrates in the water, Hazen says, and a continuous loss of straight-chain oil hydrocarbons known as alkanes—first the shorter ones and then the longer hydrocarbons.

From US News