Definition

Adjective 1. Containing one atom of metal in the molecule: Describes a chemical compound whose molecular structure includes exactly one atom of a metallic element.

Usage and Examples

• The term is primarily used in technical, scientific contexts, especially in chemistry and materials science.
• Example: "The synthesis of monometallic nanoparticles allows for the study of specific catalytic properties." (Here, 'monometallic' describes nanoparticles composed of a single type of metal atom.)
• Example: "Researchers compared the reactivity of the monometallic complex with its bimetallic counterpart." (This contrasts a compound with one metal atom against one with two different metal atoms.)

Advanced Usage

• The concept is often used in contrast to bimetallic (containing two atoms of metal, often different ones) or polymetallic (containing several metal atoms).
• Example in a research context: "The catalytic pathway differs significantly between the monometallic center and the alloyed surface."

Variants and Related Words

• Bimetallic (adj): Containing two atoms of metal, typically of two different metallic elements, in a molecule or alloy.
• Metallic (adj): Relating to, or resembling metal.
• Mononuclear (adj): In chemistry, having a single (usually metallic) atom at the core or active center. While related, 'mononuclear' can refer to non-metallic centers and emphasizes nuclearity (number of core atoms) rather than just composition.

Synonyms

• Single-metal (adj): A less formal, descriptive synonym. (e.g., "a single-metal catalyst").

Notes on Meaning

• The term is highly specific and not commonly used in everyday language. Its meaning is consistent and technical.
• It should not be confused with economic terms like monometallism, which refers to a monetary system based on a single metal standard (like the gold standard). These are distinct words sharing the prefix "mono-" (meaning one).

Adjective

1. containing one atom of metal in the molecule
   • monometallic carbonyls