Definition, Meaning & Synonyms
polyatomic
Adjective
/ˌpɒliəˈtɒmɪk/
Definition
In chemistry, polyatomic refers to a molecule or ion that consists of multiple atoms bonded together.
Examples
- Water (H2O) is a common polyatomic molecule that is essential for life.
- Sulfate (SO42−) is an example of a polyatomic ion.
- Ammonium (NH4+) is another common polyatomic ion used in fertilizers.
Meaning
The term ‘polyatomic’ is used to describe substances that are made up of more than one atom. These can include complex ions or molecules that have various numbers of atoms grouped together.
Synonyms
- Multiatomic
- Polyatomic ion
- Complex ion
