A class of aromatic compounds in which one or more of the carbon atoms in the ring structure is replaced by a heteroatom, such as nitrogen, oxygen, or sulfur. These non-carbon atoms alter the electronic properties of the molecule, affecting its reactivity, odor, and functionality, while still maintaining the hallmark features of aromaticity, such as stability, planarity, and electron delocalization.
🔊 HET·er·oh·uh·roh·MAT·iks
In the Wild — Example
The earthy almost fuel-like quality in certain strains can be traced to heteroaromatics in the plant.
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