aliphatic Definition
relating to or denoting organic compounds in which carbon atoms are joined in an open chain, rather than forming a ring (compare with aromatic)..
Using aliphatic: Examples
Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "aliphatic" can be used in various situations through the following examples!
Example
Aliphatic hydrocarbons include methane, ethane, propane, and butane.
Example
Aliphatic compounds are used as solvents, fuels, and lubricants.
Example
The aliphatic chains in lipids are important for cell membrane structure and function.
Summary: aliphatic in Brief
'Aliphatic' [al-uh-fat-ik] is an adjective used to describe organic compounds that have carbon atoms joined in an open chain, rather than forming a ring. Examples of aliphatic compounds include methane, ethane, and butane, which are used as solvents, fuels, and lubricants. The aliphatic chains in lipids are important for cell membrane structure and function.
