Bivalent: meaning, definitions and examples

Commonly used in chemistry and biology to describe entities with two valences or affinity for two atoms or groups. It is also used in genetics to refer to pairs of homologous chromosomes.

• In chemistry, a bivalent molecule has two reactive sites.
• During meiosis, homologous chromosomes form bivalent structures.

Primarily used in chemistry to describe elements or compounds with a valence of two, meaning they can form two bonds with other atoms or ions.

• Calcium is a divalent ion that plays a crucial role in cellular processes.
• Many divalent metals are essential for biological functions.

A less common and more straightforward term used in chemistry to specify elements or compounds with exactly two valences.

• Magnesium is a two-valent metal commonly found in seawater.
• Two-valent compounds often form ionic bonds.

Often used in scientific contexts, particularly in chemistry and biology, to describe elements or compounds with two valence electrons or pairs of chromosomes during meiosis.

• Calcium is a bivalent metal.
• During meiosis, homologous chromosomes form a bivalent.

Commonly used in chemistry to refer to elements or ions with a valency of two. More technical than 'bivalent'.

• Magnesium is a two-valent element.
• The two-valent ions play a crucial role in chemical reactions.

Typically used to describe things that come in pairs or are matched together, in a general sense.

• Each student paired with a classmate for the project.
• The paired socks were neatly folded in the drawer.