| straight chain | |
| —n | |
| Compare branched chain | |
| a. an open chain of atoms in a molecule with no attached side chains | |
| b. (as modifier): a straight-chain hydrocarbon | |
| a stew of meat, vegetables, potatoes, etc. |
| a gadget; dingus; thingumbob. |
| straight chain
An arrangement of atoms of the same type that forms an unbranched open chain. Propane is a straight-chain compound with a chain of three carbon atoms. |