Multivalency (Noun)
Meaning
(chemistry) the state of having a valence greater than two.
Classification
Nouns denoting natural processes.
Examples
- Multivalency is a characteristic of some elements that can form multiple bonds with other atoms, leading to the formation of complex molecules.
- In chemistry, the multivalency of an atom refers to its ability to form more than two chemical bonds, resulting in the formation of branched or cross-linked structures.
- Carbon is an example of a multivalent element that can form a wide variety of compounds, from simple molecules like methane to complex molecules like proteins and polymers.
- The multivalency of transition metals is a key factor in their ability to form coordination compounds, which have a wide range of applications in fields such as catalysis and materials science.
- The study of multivalency in molecular interactions is crucial in understanding biological processes, such as cell adhesion and recognition, which often involve complex networks of interactions between molecules.