aliphatic

(adjective)

Of a class of organic compounds in which the carbon atoms are arranged in an open chain.

Related Terms

Examples of aliphatic in the following topics:

  • Hydrocarbons

    • The hydrocarbons discussed so far have been aliphatic hydrocarbons, which consist of linear chains of carbon atoms.
    • Some hydrocarbons have both aliphatic and aromatic portions; beta-carotene is an example of such a hydrocarbon.