Definition, Meaning & Synonyms
oxa
prefix
ˈɒksə
Definition
A prefix used in chemical nomenclature to denote the presence of an oxygen atom in a molecule, specifically as part of a heterocyclic compound.
Examples
- Oxa compounds are important in medicinal chemistry.
- The term oxa is used in the names of various organic compounds, such as oxabicyclic compounds.
Meaning
In organic chemistry, ‘oxa’ indicates that an oxygen atom is included in a cyclic structure.
Synonyms
- oxygen-containing
- heteroatom
