Monoatomic (Adjective)
Meaning
Of or relating to an element consisting of a single atom; "helium and argon are monatomic gases".
Classification
Relational adjectives (pertainyms).
Examples
- Radon is a monatomic noble gas found in the atmosphere in small amounts.
- At room temperature, the inert gases are monatomic gases that don't react chemically with other substances.
- Helium and argon are monatomic gases that do not readily form compounds with other elements.
- Chlorine usually exists as a diatomic molecule, but it is sometimes referred to incorrectly as a monatomic gas.
- The noble gases, such as neon, are typical monatomic elements at standard conditions.