Definition: C10 and C15 are volatile organic compounds derived from plants. Terpenes are generally associated with characteristic fragrances. Some terpenes are alcohols (e.g., menthol from peppermint oil) and some terpenes are aldehydes (e.g., citronellal). Terpenes are made up of isoprene (C5) units.
Examples: nepetalactone from catnip, limonene from lemon oil, zingiberene from ginger
Terpene Definition
Chemistry Glossary Definition of Terpene
By Anne Marie Helmenstine, Ph.D., About.com
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