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diatomic

[ dahy-uh-tom-ik ]

adjective

, Chemistry.
  1. having two atoms in the molecule.
  2. containing two replaceable atoms or groups; binary.


diatomic

/ ˌdaɪætəˈmɪsɪtɪ; ˌdaɪəˈtɒmɪk /

adjective

  1. (of a compound or molecule)
    1. containing two atoms
    2. containing two characteristic groups or atoms

      ethylene glycol is a diatomic alcohol

“Collins English Dictionary — Complete & Unabridged” 2012 Digital Edition © William Collins Sons & Co. Ltd. 1979, 1986 © HarperCollins Publishers 1998, 2000, 2003, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2009, 2012


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Derived Forms

  • diatomicity, noun
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Other Words From

  • di·at·o·mic·i·ty [dahy-at-, uh, -, mis, -i-tee], noun
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Word History and Origins

Origin of diatomic1

First recorded in 1865–70; di- 1 + atomic
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Example Sentences

The molecule of iodine, for example, is monatomic at 1200 C., but becomes diatomic at the ordinary temperature.

Hence it may be inferred that this value is typical for diatomic molecules.

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diatomaceous earthdiatomite