Pronunciation: [mˌɒnə͡ʊɐtˈɒmɪk] (IPA) 
The correct spelling of the word "monoatomic" is mɒnəʊ'ætəmɪk. In this word, the stress falls on the second syllable. The word is composed of two parts-"mono" meaning one and "atomic" meaning relating to atoms. Combining these two parts form the meaning of "consisting of only one atom." The word is commonly used in the field of chemistry where it is used to refer to elements, ions, or molecules that have only one atom.
Monoatomic is an adjective that refers to a chemical element or ion consisting of a single atom. It is derived from the Greek words "mono," meaning one, and "atomos," meaning indivisible. In chemistry, atoms are the smallest units of matter that retain the chemical properties of an element. However, most elements exist as a combination of two or more atoms bound together in a molecule.
Monoatomic elements, on the other hand, are unique as they exist as single, separate atoms rather than being bonded to other atoms. These elements include noble gases such as helium, neon, and argon, which are famously unreactive due to their complete electron shells. In their monoatomic form, they are chemically inert and do not readily form compounds with other elements.
Monoatomic ions are also important in chemistry. They are charged particles that result from an atom gaining or losing electrons, thus altering its electron configuration. Monoatomic cations, such as sodium (Na+), have lost one or more electrons and, therefore, have a positive charge. Monoatomic anions, like chloride (Cl-), have gained electrons and possess a negative charge. These ions play a crucial role in various chemical reactions, as they can easily combine with oppositely charged ions to form ionic compounds.
In summary, monoatomic refers to chemical elements or ions that exist as isolated, individual atoms, separate from any molecular structure or bond. They can be found as monoatomic gases or as charged particles, known as monoatomic ions.
The word "monoatomic" is derived from two roots: "mono-" and "atomic".
The prefix "mono-" originates from the Greek word "monos", meaning "single" or "alone". It is commonly used to indicate singularity or that something is composed of only one unit.
The term "atomic" is derived from the ancient Greek word "atomos", meaning "indivisible" or "uncuttable". The Greek philosopher Democritus first used this term to describe the smallest, indivisible particles that make up matter.
Combining these two roots, "monoatomic" refers to a substance or particle that consists of a single atom. It implies that the substance is not combined or bonded with any other atoms and exists as a single, individual unit.
