monatomic

[ mon-uh-tom-ik ]

adjective

, Chemistry.

1. having one atom in the molecule.
2. containing one replaceable atom or group.
3. having a valence of one.

monatomic

/ ˌmɒnəˈtɒmɪk; ˌmɒnəʊəˈtɒmɪk /

adjective

1. (of an element) having or consisting of single atoms

   argon is a monatomic gas

2. (of a compound or molecule) having only one atom or group that can be replaced in a chemical reaction
3. a less common word for monovalent

Other Words From

• mona·tomi·cal·ly adverb

Word History and Origins

Origin of monatomic¹

First recorded in 1840–50; mon- + atomic

Example Sentences

This information does not inform, since there is a vast number of monatomic alcohols and of every description.

From Project Gutenberg

All of them are believed to be monatomic—that is to say, each of their molecules is composed of a single atom.

From Project Gutenberg

Its ratio of specific heats has very nearly the ideal value 1.666, appropriate to a monatomic molecule.

From Project Gutenberg

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

From Project Gutenberg

If this should prove to be the case, it will favour the view that chlorine itself is molecular and not monatomic.

From Project Gutenberg