CONGENER

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. Congeners within the same geographical region can compete with one another so many adaptations can be observed that mitigate this pressure on populations

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.

Fermentation

In the alcoholic beverage industry, congener refers to impurities produced during fermentation. Congeners are responsible for most of the taste, aroma and color of alcoholic beverages. These substances also contribute to the symptoms of a hangover.

References

• http://www.scientificsocieties.org/jib/papers/2004/G-2004-1310-263.pdf
• http://www.desy.de/~sergio/Funari-JLR-2003.pdf
• http://www.esf.edu/aec/publications/abstract/baldigo.htm

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