quadrivalent

/ˌkwɑdrəˈveɪlənt/
adjective
  1. Having four different components or types, especially in a vaccine that protects against four strains of a virus.
    • Researchers developed a quadrivalent vaccine to target multiple variants at once.
    • The quadrivalent flu vaccine protects against four different influenza strains.
    • Doctors recommend the quadrivalent shot for broader immunity this season.
  2. In chemistry, having a valence of four; able to combine with four atoms or groups.
    • The quadrivalent nature of the element explains its ability to bond with four hydrogen atoms.
    • Silicon, like carbon, is quadrivalent and can create complex molecules.
    • Carbon is quadrivalent, which allows it to form four bonds with other atoms.
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