Lavmolekylære
Lavmolekylære refers to molecules with a low molecular weight. This classification is relative and depends on the context of the scientific field. In chemistry and biochemistry, it generally denotes molecules that are significantly smaller than polymers or macromolecules like proteins and nucleic acids. Examples of lavmolekylære substances include simple sugars, amino acids, and small organic compounds. Their properties are often distinct from larger molecules, influencing their solubility, diffusion rates, and interactions with other substances. The term is frequently used when discussing drug delivery, as low molecular weight compounds can often penetrate biological membranes more easily. In environmental science, lavmolekylære pollutants are a concern due to their potential for widespread distribution and absorption by organisms. The precise cutoff for what constitutes "lavmolekylære" can vary, but it generally implies a molecular weight below a few thousand Daltons. This characteristic enables them to participate in a wide range of chemical reactions and biological processes, making them fundamental building blocks and active agents in many systems.