Cornellin

Cornellin is a term used in educational and fictional contexts to denote a hypothetical small organic molecule. It is not a fixed substance recognized in the chemical literature, and there is no single canonical structure associated with the name.

Origin of the term is uncertain; in some contexts it is linked to Cornell University due to its use in problem sets developed there, while other sources treat it as a generic placeholder name.

In teaching materials, Cornellin serves as a flexible example to illustrate organic reaction mechanisms, functional-group interconversions, and structure–activity relationships. Because different authors define Cornellin differently, it provides a common scaffold for discussing concepts without referencing a real compound.

In fiction and popular science writing, Cornellin may be described with various hypothetical properties or biological activities to suit the narrative or speculative scenario. These portrayals are fictional and not supported by experimental data.

Because Cornellin is not a defined chemical, there is no standard chemical formula, molecular weight, or physical properties, and it is not commercially available. When used in classrooms, instructors typically present a drawn structure or a general schematic that aligns with the learning objective.

See also: model compound, placeholder molecule.