Definitions
- Describing a pair of mirror-image objects that cannot be superimposed on each other. - Referring to the property of certain molecules that have non-superimposable mirror images. - Talking about the symmetry of an object or molecule that is not superimposable on its mirror image.
- Describing a molecule that has a non-superimposable mirror image. - Referring to the property of certain objects that are not superimposable on their mirror image. - Talking about the asymmetry of a molecule or object that has a mirror image that cannot be superimposed.
List of Similarities
- 1Both words describe the non-superimposability of mirror images.
- 2Both words are used in chemistry and physics.
- 3Both words refer to the asymmetry of an object or molecule.
What is the difference?
- 1Usage: Enantiomorphic is more commonly used in the context of crystallography, while chiral is more commonly used in organic chemistry.
- 2Scope: Enantiomorphic can refer to the symmetry of an object or molecule, while chiral specifically refers to the asymmetry of a molecule or object.
- 3Connotation: Enantiomorphic has a more technical and formal connotation, while chiral is more commonly used in everyday language.
- 4Adjectival form: Enantiomorphic is an adjective that describes the property of an object or molecule, while chiral can be both an adjective and a noun.
Remember this!
Enantiomorphic and chiral are synonyms that describe the non-superimposability of mirror images. While they share similarities in their meaning, they differ in their etymology, usage, scope, connotation, and adjectival form. Enantiomorphic is more technical and formal, used in the context of crystallography, and can refer to the symmetry of an object or molecule. Chiral, on the other hand, is more commonly used in organic chemistry, has a broader everyday language use, and specifically refers to the asymmetry of a molecule or object.
