valence

[/ˈveɪ.ləns/]
nounfemininepl: valências
valência
1. The combining capacity of an element, especially as measured by the number of hydrogen atoms it can bond with or displace in compounds
Oxygen has a valence of two in most compounds.
O oxigênio tem valência dois na maioria dos compostos.
2. The degree of combining power of an element or radical
The valence of nitrogen can vary from -3 to +5.
A valência do nitrogênio pode variar de -3 a +5.
3. In psychology, the emotional tone or attractiveness of something
The positive valence of the stimulus made people want to approach it.
A valência positiva do estímulo fez as pessoas quererem se aproximar dele.
4. In chemistry, the number of chemical bonds that an atom can form
Carbon has a valence of four, allowing it to form four bonds.
O carbono tem valência quatro, permitindo formar quatro ligações.
This is a technical term primarily used in chemistry and psychology education in both Brazil and the United States. It is not commonly used in everyday conversation but is essential in scientific discourse. In Brazil, the term is standardized in chemistry education and follows the same nomenclature as in English-speaking countries due to the international nature of scientific terminology.
Synonyms / Sinônimos
valencyoxidation statecombining power

Regional Variations

General Brazilian Portuguese
valência
Standard term used in chemistry and psychology textbooks
Portugal
valência
Same usage as Brazilian Portuguese; technical term in chemistry
Academic/Technical
valência
Primarily used in scientific and academic contexts

Related Words

covalentionicelectronchemical bondatommolecule

Related Idioms & Phrases

valence bond
valence electron
valence shell
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