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

Derived Forms

• diatomicity, noun

Other Words From

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

Word History and Origins

Origin of diatomic¹

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

Example Sentences

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

From Project Gutenberg

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

From Project Gutenberg