noun cross-link n. (Chem., Biochem.) A covalent bond that links two chains of atoms, or two sections of one chain, in a polymeric molecule; the cross-link is created by a third bond in a monomer unit in addition to the two bonds forming the polymeric chain; a cross-link may be internal to a single chain, rather than between two otherwise unlinked chains; as, ultraviolet irradiation creates cross-links between the two chains of a DNA double helix; many enzymes have cross-links formed by disulfide bonds; polystyrene resins have their porosity controlled by the proportion of cross-links. Called also cross-linkage. Synonyms: cross-linkage.
verb cross-link v. t. (past & past part. cross-linked, pres. part. cross-linking) (Chem., Biochem.) To create cross links in; of polymeric molecules.
Collaborative International Dictionary of English 0.48
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