Degenerate
Describing different quantum states that have the same energy. For instance, the five d-orbitals, in transition-metal atom all have the same energy but different values of the magnetic quantum number m. Differences in energy occur if a magnetic field is applied or if the arrangement of electrons around the atom is not symmetrical. The degeneracy is then said to be ‘lifted’.
Degradation
A chemical reaction in which a molecule decomposes into simpler molecules, e.g., conversion of amide into amine in the presence of bromine ad alcoholic KOH.
Dehydration
A process of removing water from a substance, e.g., dehydration of ethyl alcohol in the presence of sulphuric acid.
Delocalisation
Refers to spreading out of bonding electrons in a molecule over the molecule.