| analog | 1. One of two organs or parts in different species of animals or plants which differ in structure or development but are similar in function. 2. A compound that resembles another in structure but is not necessarily an isomer (e.g., 5-fluorouracil is an analog of thymine); analog's are often used to block enzymatic reactions by combining with enzymes (e.g., isopropyl thiogalactoside vs. Lactose). Synonym: analogue. Origin: G. Analogos, proportionate (05 Mar 2000) |
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| analog-digital conversion | The process of converting analog data such as continually measured voltage to discrete, digital form. (12 Dec 1998) |
| analogous | According to a due ratio, conformable, proportionate, resembling or similar in some respects, as in function or appearance, but not in origin or development. Compare: homologous. Origin: Gr. Analogos (18 Nov 1997) |
| analogue | <chemistry> A compound that is structurally similar to another. (10 Jan 1998) |
| analogy | <biology> Two anatomical structures or behavioural traits within different and unrelated organisms which perform the same functions in each organism but which did not originate from an ancestral structure or trait that the organisms' ancestors had in common. Instead, the structures or traits arose separately and then later evolved to perform the same function (or similar functions). See: convergent evolution. Compare: homology. (09 Oct 1997) |
| computers, analog | Computers in which quantities are represented by physical variables; problem parameters are translated into equivalent mechanical or electrical circuits as an analog for the physical phenomenon being investigated. (12 Dec 1998) |
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| enzyme analog | A synthetic macromolecule having enzymatic activity. Synonym: enzyme analog. (05 Mar 2000) |