Definition

Referring to a chemical or genetic characteristic where there is only one valence or a chromosome that is not paired with its homologous counterpart.

Example

In certain genetic studies, researchers observed the behavior of univalent chromosomes during cell division.

Conversation

I was reading about genetics, and I came across the term univalent chromosomes.

Oh really? What does that mean exactly?

It refers to chromosomes that are not paired during synapsis, which I found pretty interesting.

That is interesting! I love how complex genetics can be.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Definition

A type of chromosome that does not have a paired counterpart during cell division.

Example

In certain genetic studies, researchers observed the behavior of univalents during meiosis.

Conversation

Have you heard about the concept of a univalent chromosome in genetics?

Yeah, I read that it's a chromosome without a partner during meiosis.

That's right! It's interesting how it affects genetic variation.

Root Explanation

Univalent is formed from "uni-" (meaning one) and "valent" (from Latin "valens", meaning strong or having worth). The word describes something that has a single value or strength, particularly in chemistry where it refers to an element with a valence of one.

Memory Tip

Think of 'uni-' meaning one, and 'valent' relating to strength or worth — this helps you remember that univalent refers to something with a single strength or value.

Visually Confused Words