Definition of additivity principle

1. The hypothesis that each of several structural features of a molecular entity makes a separate and additive contribution to a property of the substance concerned. More specifically, it is the hypothesis that each of the several substituent groups in a parent molecule makes a separate and additive contribution to the standard Gibbs energy change (or Gibbs energy of activation) corresponding to a particular equilibrium (or rate of reaction). For further information and examples see BENSON (1976). See also transferability.