ANTIPARALLEL Meaning and
Definition
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Antiparallel refers to the opposite or parallel arrangement of two objects or components in a specific context. This term is commonly used in the fields of physics, biology, and genetics to describe the orientation, alignment, or configuration of two entities that run alongside each other but in opposite directions or with opposite characteristics.
In the realm of physics, antiparallel is often used to describe the arrangement of two parallel and adjacent vectors with opposite directions or magnitudes. For instance, in magnetism, it refers to the alignment of two magnetic moments that point in opposing directions.
In genetics and molecular biology, antiparallel is frequently employed to describe the orientation of the two complementary strands of a DNA molecule. The DNA double helix structure consists of two strands wrapped around each other, with the nucleotide bases on each strand pairing together through hydrogen bonds. The strands run in opposite directions: one runs from the 5' end to the 3' end, while the other runs from the 3' end to the 5' end. This antiparallel configuration allows for the complementary base pairing necessary for DNA replication and protein synthesis.
In general, the term antiparallel denotes symmetrical or reverse arrangements, where two entities are positioned parallel to each other but with opposing characteristics, directions, or orientations.
Overall, antiparallel describes a relationship or configuration in which two components or objects are positioned parallel to each other while pointing in opposite directions or displaying opposite characteristics.
Common Misspellings for ANTIPARALLEL
Etymology of ANTIPARALLEL
The word "antiparallel" is formed by combining the prefix "anti", which means "opposite" or "against", with the word "parallel". The term originated in the field of geometry and mathematics to describe two lines or vectors that are parallel but oriented in opposite directions. It is primarily used in the context of molecular biology and DNA strands, where antiparallel describes the arrangement of the two DNA strands in a double helix structure, with one strand running in the 3' to 5' direction and the other in the 5' to 3' direction.
Similar spelling words for ANTIPARALLEL
