valence

/ˈveɪləns/
noun
  1. The ability of an atom to combine with other atoms, measured by the number of electrons it can share, lose, or gain.
    • In chemistry class, we learned how valence determines how atoms bond.
    • Carbon has a valence of four, allowing it to form many different compounds.
    • The valence of an element affects the types of molecules it can create.
  2. The emotional or psychological value or charge of an experience, event, or stimulus (positive or negative).
    • Psychologists study the valence of emotions to understand human behavior.
    • The movie's ending had a negative valence, leaving the audience feeling sad.
    • The memory had a strong positive valence because it reminded her of happy times.
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