Divalent: meaning, definitions and examples

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divalent

[ ˈdaɪˈveɪlənt ]

^{Context #1}

chemistry

Having a valency of two; capable of combining with two atoms of hydrogen or other monovalent atoms.

Synonyms

binuclear, bivalent, double

Examples of usage

The divalent metal ions are important in many biological processes.
This compound is divalent and can form stable complexes with other molecules.

^{Context #2}

chemistry

Having a valency of two in chemical compounds.

Synonyms

binuclear, bivalent, double

Examples of usage

The divalent cation is attracted to the negatively charged anion.
These divalent elements are commonly found in nature.

^{Context #3}

biology

Referring to an ion or atom that has a valency of two.

Synonyms

binuclear, bivalent, double

Examples of usage

The divalent ions play a crucial role in enzyme activity.
These divalent molecules are essential for proper cell function.

Translations

Translations of the word "divalent" in other languages:

🇵🇹 divalente

🇮🇳 द्विसंयोजी

🇩🇪 zweiwertig

🇮🇩 divalen

🇺🇦 двовалентний

🇵🇱 dwuwartościowy

🇯🇵 二価 (にか)

🇫🇷 divalent

🇪🇸 divalente

🇹🇷 divalent

🇰🇷 이가의 (이가의)

🇸🇦 ثنائي التكافؤ

🇨🇿 dvojsytný

🇸🇰 dvojmocný

🇨🇳 二价 (èrjià)

🇸🇮 dvovalenten

🇮🇸 tvígilt

🇰🇿 екі валентті

🇬🇪 ორვალენტიანი

🇦🇿 divalent

🇲🇽 divalente

Word origin

The term 'divalent' originates from the combination of the prefix 'di-' meaning two, and the word 'valent' derived from the Latin 'valentia' meaning strength or capacity. It first appeared in the mid-19th century in the field of chemistry to describe elements or ions with a valency of two. The concept of divalency has since been widely used in various scientific disciplines to denote the ability of an atom or ion to form two chemical bonds.