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Diatomic: meaning, definitions and examples

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diatomic

 

[daɪəˈtɒmɪk ]

Definition

Context #1 | Adjective

chemical compounds

Diatomic refers to molecules composed of two atoms, which may be of the same or different chemical elements. These molecules are common in nature and play a vital role in various chemical reactions. For example, diatomic elements such as oxygen (O2) and nitrogen (N2) are essential for life and are abundant in the Earth's atmosphere. Diatomic molecules can exist in various forms, including homonuclear and heteronuclear structures, depending on whether the two atoms are of the same or different type.

Synonyms

binary, two-atom.

Examples of usage

  • Oxygen is diatomic in its molecular form.
  • Hydrogen exists as a diatomic molecule (H2).
  • Diatomic nitrogen makes up about 78% of the Earth's atmosphere.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

  • The prefix 'di-' comes from the Greek word for two, while 'atomic' has roots in the Greek word 'atomos', meaning indivisible.
  • The term 'diatomic' first appeared in scientific literature in the early 19th century, primarily used in chemistry.

Science

  • Common diatomic molecules include nitrogen (N2), oxygen (O2), and hydrogen (H2), essential for life on Earth.
  • Diatomic molecules can exist as gases at room temperature, demonstrating how atoms can bond in various conditions.

Education

  • Teaching students about diatomic molecules is important in chemistry to explain chemical bonding and reactions.
  • Many science curricula introduce diatomic molecules early, helping learners understand more complex concepts later on.

Pop Culture

  • Diatomic elements sometimes appear in science fiction as symbols of partnerships or duality, reflecting their two-part nature.
  • In popular media, the representation of atoms in animation often highlights diatomic groups, to simplify concepts for viewers.

Environmental Impact

  • The diatomic molecule O2 is critical for respiration in living organisms, emphasizing the interdependence of life and chemistry.
  • N2, a diatomic molecule, makes up about 78% of the Earth's atmosphere, illustrating its abundance and importance.

Translations

Translations of the word "diatomic" in other languages:

🇵🇹 diatómico

🇮🇳 द्विआणुकीय

🇩🇪 diatomisch

🇮🇩 diatomik

🇺🇦 діатомний

🇵🇱 dwuatomowy

🇯🇵 二原子の

🇫🇷 diatomique

🇪🇸 diatómico

🇹🇷 diyatomik

🇰🇷 이원자

🇸🇦 ثنائي الذرة

🇨🇿 dvojatomový

🇸🇰 dvojatomový

🇨🇳 双原子

🇸🇮 dvojatomski

🇮🇸 tvíatómur

🇰🇿 екі атомды

🇬🇪 ორმაგი ატომური

🇦🇿 ikiatomlu

🇲🇽 diatómico

Word Frequency Rank

At rank #25,341, this word represents specialized academic or technical vocabulary. It's less frequently encountered but may be valuable in specific contexts.