heteronuclear

adjective

het·​ero·​nuclear

¦hetərō+

1

: heterocyclic

2

: of or relating to different rings in a chemical compound

heteronuclear substitution in naphthalene

3

: of or relating to a molecule composed of different nuclei

hydrogen chloride HCl and deuterium hydride HD consist of heteronuclear diatomic molecules

Word History

Etymology

heter- + nuclear

The Ultimate Dictionary Awaits

Expand your vocabulary and dive deeper into language with Merriam-Webster Unabridged.

1. Expanded definitions
2. Detailed etymologies
3. Advanced search tools
4. All ad-free

Discover what makes Merriam-Webster Unabridged the essential choice for true word lovers.

Start Your Free Trial Now