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Dextrorotary
A solution that rotates plane-polarized light clockwise (+).
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Enantiomeric excess
The percentage of one enantiomer in excess of another.
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Levorotary
A solution that rotates plane-polarized light counter-clockwise (-).
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Optical activity
The ability for a solution to rotate plane-polarized light that is passed through it.
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Optical rotation
The amount by which a given sample rotates plane-polarized light, in degrees. Depends on the concentration, sample path length, and the nature of the sample.
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Optically active
Any substance that exhibits optical activity.
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Polarimetry
The technique of measuring the optical activity of a compound.
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Racemic mixture
A solution in which both enantiomers of a compound are present in equal amounts.
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Specific rotation
Property characteristic of a given compound. Conventionally measured at 20 degrees Celsius with the D-line of sodium.