1. A chain of atoms in a molecule whose ends are not joined to form a ring
   "The chemist explained that glucose exists as an open chain in solution"

1. (chemistry) having an open chain structure
   "The open-chain molecule was more reactive than its cyclic counterpart";
   - acyclic

Derived forms: open chains

See also: aliphatic

Type of: chain, chemical chain

Antonym: closed chain

Encyclopedia: Open chain