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Glite Dictionary
dextrorotary

dextrorotary

9.9
Turns polarized light to the right when seen along the beam
  • adjective
  • /ˌdɛkstroʊˈroʊtəri/
  • Specialized
translation icon : dextrorrotatorio
  • The sugar solution is dextrorotary and will rotate polarized light to the right.

Examples

  • Many natural sugars, such as glucose, are dextrorotary in solution.

  • A dextrorotary compound is often denoted by a plus sign (+) in chemical notation.

  • The solution is dextrorotary when tested with polarized light.

  • Is this compound dextrorotary or levorotary?

  • Many natural sugars, such as glucose, are dextrorotary in solution.

  • The sugar solution is dextrorotary and will rotate polarized light to the right.

  • A dextrorotary compound is often denoted by a plus sign (+) in chemical notation.

Synonyms

right-handed
vsdextrorotary
  • Specialized
1 2.8

Rotating to the right, like a screw that tightens when turned clockwise

is specific to rotating a light plane rather than general rotation
dextral
vsdextrorotary
  • Specialized
1 8.8

On the right side or turning to the right, like a shell

focuses on rotating a light plane not on body side or general direction
dextrorotatory
vsdextrorotary
  • Specialized
9.9

Rotating polarized light to the right when light passes through a substance

has identical meaning but differs in word ending or form

Surface Forms

dextrorotary positive

Morphology

dextrorotary = rotary (semi-transparent) = dextro + rotary

The composition 'dextro-' (right) + 'rotary' yields 'right-turning', but 'dextro-' is a technical combining form unfamiliar to average learners.

Etymology

The word dextrorotary comes from the Latin root dexter meaning 'right' and the root rotate meaning 'turn', as in ambidextrous. So a dextrorotary substance 'turns' light to the 'right', or clockwise.