Congener
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A congener (from Latin roots meaning "born together" or "within the same race or kind") has several different meanings depending on the field in which it is used. Colloquially, it is used to mean a person or thing like another, in character or action.
Biology
In biology, congeners are organisms within the same genus.[1] A related term referring to members of the same species is conspecific. Congeners and conspecifics within the same geographical region can compete.
Chemistry
In chemistry, congeners are related chemicals, e.g., a derivative or an element in the same group of the periodic table.
- There are 209 congeners of polychlorinated biphenyls (PCB) as well as 209 congeners of polybrominated diphenyl ethers (PBDE).
- Congeners of oleic acids can modify cell membrane behavior protecting against tumors or having effects on blood pressure.
- Congeners refer to the other elements in a group in the periodic table. For example, the congeners of the Group 11 element copper are silver and gold.
Genetics
In genetics, congenic organisms are organisms with very similar genomes, except for a small fraction. For example, recombinant congenic mice strains are produced in laboratories as a tool to study genetic disease.
In alcoholic beverages
In the alcoholic beverages industry, congeners are impurities produced during fermentation. These impurities include small amounts of chemicals such as acetone, acetaldehyde, and tannins. Congeners are responsible for most of the taste, aroma, and color of alcoholic beverages. It has been suggested that these substances contribute to the symptoms of a hangover.[2]
References
- ^ Congener, Merriam-Webster.com. Accessed 2009-03-25
- ^ Whisky hangover 'worse than vodka, a study suggests', BBC News. Accessed 2009-12-19