lactone

/ˈlæktɒn/

Definitions

1. noun

A cyclic organic compound that contains a carbonyl group attached to a ring of carbon atoms.

“The research team discovered a new lactone with potential medicinal properties.”

2. chemistry

A type of organic compound characterized by a cyclic structure containing a carbonyl group.

“The lactone was synthesized through a multi-step chemical reaction.”

3. biology

A type of compound found in the cell walls of certain types of algae and bacteria.

“The lactone plays a crucial role in the structural integrity of the algal cell wall.”

Synonyms

  • cyclic compound
  • ketone

Antonyms

  • open-chain compound