heterocyclic compound Any organic compound in which the atoms are linked to form one or more rings, at least one of which includes one or more atoms other than carbon – commonly nitrogen, oxygen, or sulfur. Many such compounds are of great biochemical and industrial importance. As with alicyclic compounds, saturated heterocyclic compounds resemble their aliphatic analogues except for the effect of strain in small rings. There is also a large class of heterocyclic aromatic compounds, highly distinctive in properties. Related category • ORGANIC CHEMISTRY Also on this site: Encyclopedia of Alternative Energy & Sustainable Living Encyclopedia of History Transport Concepts & Designs (partner site) |