a. Chem. [f. BI- pref.2 III + -valent, ad. L. valēntem, pr. pple. of valēre to be worth.] Combining with two atoms of an element or radicle; also divalent.
1869. Eng. Mechanic, 12 Nov., 198/3. The elements are classified as … diatomic or bivalent … as sulphur.
1880. Cleminshaw, trans. Wurtz’ Atom. The., 121. Mercury, cadmium, and probably other bivalent metals.
