bidentate

9.9

Having two points that attach to the same thing

adjective
/ˌbaɪˈdɛnˌteɪt/

Specialized

: bidentado

A bidentate ligand can form two bonds with a metal ion.

Examples

Certain ligands in coordination chemistry are described as bidentate because they attach through two donor atoms.
The fossil had a bidentate jaw structure, making it unique among related species.
Certain ligands in coordination chemistry are described as bidentate because they attach through two donor atoms.
The caterpillar’s bidentate mandibles made it easy to identify the species.
The bidentate structure of the molecule enhances its stability.
A bidentate ligand can form two bonds with a metal ion.
The bidentate structure of the molecule enhances its stability.

Synonyms

two-pronged

vsbidentate

3 4.4

It has two separate parts that work together

attaches at two places to bind or connect in scientific contexts

bicuspid

vsbidentate

Specialized

1 7.2

Having two points, for example a leaf or a tooth with two small tips

applies to attachment at two places in chemical contexts not tooth shape

bicuspidate

vsbidentate

Specialized

9.9

Having two pointed parts like a tooth or leaf

focuses on binding at two sites rather than mere visible cusps

How Many Bonds

chelate

Specialized

1 9.9

chelation

Specialized

8.7

bidentate

Specialized

9.9

ligand

Specialized

3 8.3

Surface Forms

bidentate positive

Morphology

bidentate = dentate (semi-transparent) = bi + dentate

Adding the productive prefix 'bi-' ('two') to the adjective 'dentate' yields the clear sense 'two-toothed' or 'having two projections'.

Etymology

Bidentate is made of bi- ('two') and dent- ('tooth'), the same root you see in dentist. So, picture something with 'two teeth' or two points — bidentate means having two points or attaching in two places.