Definition, Meaning & Synonyms

racemate

Noun

/ˈreɪ.sɪ.meɪt/

Definition

A racemate is a mixture of equal amounts of two enantiomers, which are molecules that are mirror images of each other but not superimposable.

Examples

The drug exists as a racemate, meaning it has both the R and S forms.
Researchers often need to separate racemates to study the effects of each enantiomer individually.
Racemate formations can influence the efficacy and safety of pharmaceutical compounds.

Meaning

In chemistry, racemates are significant in stereochemistry because they can display different biological activities compared to their individual enantiomers.