hexavalent
Definition
- Adjective:
- Having a valence of six: In chemistry, "hexavalent" describes an atom, ion, or element that has a combining power of six, meaning it can form six chemical bonds with other atoms.
- Containing a hexavalent element: Refers to compounds or materials that include an element in its +6 oxidation state, such as hexavalent chromium.
Usage Examples
- (Chromium with a valence of six, known for its health hazards.)
- (Uranium in its +6 oxidation state.)
Advanced Usage
"Hexavalent state": The oxidation state of +6 for an element.
- The hexavalent state of sulfur is found in sulfuric acid. (Sulfur with a valence of six in H₂SO₄.)
"Hexavalent vaccine": A vaccine that protects against six different diseases (e.g., diphtheria, tetanus, pertussis, polio, hepatitis B, and Haemophilus influenzae type b).
- The hexavalent vaccine is given to infants to provide broad protection. (A single shot covering six illnesses.)
Variants and Related Words
Hexavalence (noun): the property of having a valence of six.
- The hexavalence of chromium makes it highly reactive. (The state of having six bonds.)
Hexavalent chromium (compound noun): chromium in its +6 oxidation state, often used in plating and dyes.
- Exposure to hexavalent chromium can cause lung cancer. (A specific toxic compound.)
Synonyms
- Six-valent: an alternative term for having a valence of six.
- Sexivalent: a less common synonym, from Latin (six).
Related Idioms
- None commonly used; "hexavalent" is a technical term primarily in chemistry and medicine.
Phrasal Verbs
- None applicable; "hexavalent" is an adjective and does not form phrasal verbs.