affinity
In chemistry, the force of attraction (see bond) between atoms that helps to keep them in combination in a molecule. The term is also applied to attraction between molecules, such as those of biochemical significance (for example, between enzymes and substrate molecules). This is the basis for affinity chromatography, by which biologically important compounds are separated.
The atoms of a given element may have a greater affinity for the atoms of one element than for another (for example, hydrogen has a great affinity for chlorine, with which it easily and rapidly combines to form hydrogen chloride, but has little or no affinity for argon).
| The affinity of monoclonal antibodies for specific proteins forms the basis of many medical diagnostic tests, for example pregnancy testing. |
affinity
In law, relationship by marriage not blood (for example, between a husband and his wife's blood relatives, between a wife and her husband's blood relatives, or between step-parent and stepchild), which may legally preclude their marriage. It is distinguished from consanguinity or blood relationship.
How to thank TFD for its existence? Tell a friend about us, add a link to this page, add the site to iGoogle, or visit webmaster's page for free fun content.
| ?Page tools | ||
|---|---|---|
|
?Sign in  |
|---|