Contravalence

/ˌkɒntrəˈveɪləns/ noun

Definition

In chemistry and physics, the state or quality of having opposite or contrary valence; a force or property that opposes or counteracts valence.

Etymology

From contra- (opposite) plus valence (from Latin valentia 'strength'). This scientific term was created to describe opposing chemical properties or forces.

Kelly Says

While 'valence' measures how many bonds an atom can form, 'contravalence' describes the opposite tendency—it's the kind of ultra-specific scientific vocabulary that makes chemistry feel like it has its own language!

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