molecular

Everyday

1. (science) To do with molecules: the tiny groups of atoms joined together that make up substances. tree →
2. (science) Happening at the level of molecules: «molecular biology», «a molecular model». tree →

In the lessons

In science lessons, a water molecule is H₂O (two hydrogen atoms and one oxygen atom). Molecular models use balls and sticks to show molecules. «Molecular biology» studies DNA and proteins; «molecular gastronomy» is science-style cooking. Phrases: «molecular structure», «molecular model», «molecular biology».

Examples

• We built a molecular model of water with balls and sticks. tree →
• Molecular biology studies DNA. tree →
• The molecular structure of diamond makes it very hard. tree →
• Scientists use molecular tests to find viruses. tree →
• The chef makes «caviar» from juice with molecular cooking tricks. tree →
• Ice and water have the same molecules but a different molecular arrangement. tree →
• Molecular scientists study very, very tiny things. tree →
• The molecular formula of carbon dioxide is CO₂. tree →

Note

Adjective from «molecule». Pronounced «mo-LEK-yoo-lar». Molecules are made of atoms; an atom is not a molecule (unless joined to others). In maths/science, a molecular formula counts atoms: H₂O means 2 hydrogen + 1 oxygen = 3 atoms.