Enantiomorphism

/ɪˌnæntiːˈɔmərˌfɪzəm/ noun

Definition

The property or condition of being enantiomorphic; the quality of existing as non-superimposable mirror images.

Etymology

From 'enantiomorph' + '-ism' (a suffix forming nouns representing systems, conditions, or practices). The '-ism' creates an abstract noun describing the phenomenon of mirror-image existence.

Kelly Says

Enantiomorphism appears throughout nature—in spiral shells, plant leaves, and DNA itself. The fact that life overwhelmingly chooses one-handed versions of molecules (left-handed amino acids, right-handed DNA sugars) is one of science's great unsolved mysteries.

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