How Do You Spell POLYNUCLEAR?

Pronunciation: [pˌɒlɪnjˈuːkli͡ə] (IPA)

Polynuclear is a word commonly used in chemistry to describe molecules with multiple nuclei. The IPA phonetic transcription for this word is [ˌpɑlɪˈnuːkliɚ]. The first syllable, "poli", is pronounced as "pah-lee" with a long "o" sound. The second syllable, "nu", is pronounced as "noo". The final syllable, "clear", is pronounced as "kli-yer" with a slightly stressed "i" sound. The spelling of this word reflects the Greek roots of "poli" meaning "many" and "nucleus" meaning "kernel".

POLYNUCLEAR Meaning and Definition

1. Polynuclear is an adjective used to describe a material or substance that consists of multiple nuclei or is characterized by the presence of numerous nuclei. The term is derived from the prefix "poly," meaning many, and the word "nuclear," referring to the nucleus, which is the central part of an atom.

   In the field of chemistry and materials science, polynuclear often refers to compounds or complexes that contain more than one metal or metal center in their structure. These compounds typically exhibit unique properties and reactivity due to the interactions between the multiple metal centers. Polynuclear complexes can be found in various chemical systems, including transition metal compounds and coordination compounds.

   Polynuclear compounds play a crucial role in many important chemical reactions and catalysis processes. Due to their distinctive structures and properties, they often exhibit enhanced catalytic activity, stability, and selectivity. Consequently, they are of great interest in technological applications, including industrial catalysts, energy conversion devices, and materials with specific magnetic or optical properties.

   Moreover, polynuclear can also describe the nuclear structure of certain cells or organisms. In biology, for example, polynuclear cells are cells that contain multiple nuclei within their cytoplasm. This condition can occur naturally, such as in skeletal muscle cells, or as a result of certain diseases or medical interventions.

   In summary, polynuclear refers to the presence of multiple nuclei in a material, compound, or cellular structure. Its significance lies in the distinctive properties and reactivity it imparts to various chemical systems and the biological significance it holds in certain organisms and cells.

2. Multinuclear.

   A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.

Common Misspellings for POLYNUCLEAR

• polynucelar

Etymology of POLYNUCLEAR

The word "polynuclear" comes from the combination of two roots: "poly" and "nuclear".

The root "poly" derives from the Greek word "polys", meaning "many" or "multiple". It is commonly used as a prefix in English to indicate something composed of multiple or many parts.

The root "nuclear" comes from the Latin word "nucleus", which originally referred to the kernel or seed of a fruit. Over time, the term was adopted in scientific contexts to refer to the central part or core of an atom. In chemistry, it is used to describe something related to the atomic nucleus.

Combining these two roots, "polynuclear" refers to something composed of multiple or many atomic nuclei. It is often used in chemistry to describe compounds or molecules that contain multiple nuclei, particularly in the context of coordination compounds where multiple metal ions are present.