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Divalent: meaning, definitions and examples

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divalent

 

[ˈdaɪˈveɪlənt ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Adjective

chemistry

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

Synonyms

binuclear, bivalent, double.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
divalent

Used in chemistry to describe an element or compound that has exactly two valence electrons available for bonding.

  • Magnesium is divalent with two electrons in its outer shell.
  • Divalent ions like calcium play a crucial role in biological systems.
bivalent

Often used in genetics to describe a pair of homologous chromosomes during meiosis, or in chemistry to refer to something capable of forming two bonds.

  • During meiosis, homologous chromosomes form a bivalent for synapsis.
  • The bivalent nature of sulfur allows it to form double bonds with other elements.
binuclear

Used in chemistry or molecular biology to describe a molecule or compound with two nuclei.

  • The binuclear complex showed interesting magnetic properties.
  • A binuclear cell may result from the fusion of two cells.
double

General term used to describe anything that consists of or involves two identical or similar units.

  • She ordered a double espresso.
  • They set the double trap to catch the animal.

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 | Adjective

chemistry

Having a valency of two in chemical compounds.

Synonyms

binuclear, bivalent, double.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
divalent

Use this term in scientific contexts, especially in chemistry, to describe an element or a compound that has a valence of two.

  • Calcium ion is divalent.
  • The divalent bond in the molecule stabilizes it.
bivalent

Primarily used in genetics to describe a pair of homologous chromosomes that are linked together by a chiasma during meiosis, or in chemistry to denote something with a valence of two.

  • During meiosis, the chromosomes form bivalents.
  • Magnesium is bivalent.
binuclear

Mostly used in chemistry and biology to describe a molecule or complex with two nuclear centers or a cell with two nuclei.

  • The binuclear complex exhibits interesting catalytic properties.
  • Some protists are binuclear, having two distinct nuclei.
double

This term can be used in everyday language to describe something consisting of two equal, identical, or similar parts or elements.

  • I'd like a double espresso, please.
  • The recipe requires double the amount of sugar.

Examples of usage

  • The divalent cation is attracted to the negatively charged anion.
  • These divalent elements are commonly found in nature.
Context #3 | Adjective

biology

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

Synonyms

binuclear, bivalent, double.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
divalent

Used in chemistry to describe an atom or a molecule that has a valence of two, meaning it can form two bonds with other atoms.

  • The ion is divalent, meaning it can bond with two chloride ions.
  • Divalent metals like calcium play crucial roles in biological processes.
bivalent

In genetics, this is used to describe a pair of homologous chromosomes that have synapsed or paired up during meiosis. Occasionally used interchangeably with 'divalent' in chemistry.

  • During meiosis, each chromosome pairs up with its homolog, forming a bivalent.
  • Bivalent antibodies can bind to two antigen molecules.
binuclear

Used mostly in chemistry to describe a compound or molecule that contains two nuclei or central atoms.

  • The binuclear complex was a key focus of the research study.
  • Binuclear metal compounds often have unique magnetic properties.
double

Used in general language to indicate something that is twice as much or consists of two identical parts.

  • I'll have a double espresso, please.
  • They booked a double room for their stay at the hotel.

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

Etymology

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.

Word Frequency Rank

Positioned at #22,303, this word is part of extensive vocabulary. It's relatively rare in general usage but may be important in specific fields or formal writing.