French translation of quaternary is 
quaternaire

Meaning of "quaternary" in English

The term "quaternary" is an adjective used to describe something that is fourth in a series or of fourth rank. In scientific contexts, the Quaternary period is a geologic timeframe that follows the Tertiary period, encompassing the present day. It’s characterized by significant fluctuations in climate, including repeated glaciations and the resultant impact on the earth's surface. Quaternary can also refer to an arrangement involving four parts or components.

Meaning of "quaternaire" in French

In the French language, "quaternaire" refers similarly to the concept of fourth-order items or elements. It is commonly used in geological and chemical contexts. In geology, "quaternaire" refers to the same period characterized by ice ages and the formation of current geographical landscapes. In chemistry, it may describe compounds with four substituating atoms or groups. Its usage remains closely tied to structures or rankings involving the number four.

Pronunciation of "quaternary" in English

Phonetic Transcription: [kwə-TUR-nə-ree]
Pronunciation Variations: The word "quaternary" might slightly vary in pronunciation between British and American English, primarily in the stress and intonation of the syllables.

Pronunciation of "quaternaire" in French

Phonetic Transcription: [kwa-tɛʁ-nɛʁ]
Pronunciation Variations: Generally pronounced consistently across French-speaking regions, although slight variations might occur depending on regional accents or dialects.

Sentence examples in English and translation to French

1. The quaternary period is marked by several ice ages. - La période quaternaire est marquée par plusieurs âges glaciaires.
2. Scientists study quaternary climates to understand past environmental changes. - Les scientifiques étudient les climats quaternaires pour comprendre les changements environnementaux passés.
3. The quaternary structure of the protein is crucial for its function. - La structure quaternaire de la protéine est cruciale pour sa fonction.
4. Quaternary ammonium salts are commonly used as disinfectants. - Les sels d'ammonium quaternaire sont couramment utilisés comme désinfectants.
5. Geologists often examine quaternary landscapes for evidence of glaciation. - Les géologues examinent souvent les paysages quaternaires pour trouver des preuves de glaciation.
6. The modern flora and fauna developed during the quaternary period. - La flore et la faune modernes se sont développées pendant la période quaternaire.
7. Quaternary consumers occupy the top of the ecological hierarchy. - Les consommateurs quaternaires occupent le sommet de la hiérarchie écologique.
8. The study of quaternary geomorphology involves analyzing sediment layers. - L'étude de la géomorphologie quaternaire implique l'analyse des couches de sédiments.
9. Quaternary ice sheets have shaped much of the Northern Hemisphere's surface. - Les calottes glaciaires quaternaires ont façonné une grande partie de la surface de l'hémisphère nord.
10. Technological advancements have enhanced research in quaternary science. - Les avancées technologiques ont amélioré la recherche en science quaternaire.

Synonyms, antonyms, and similar words for "quaternary" in English

Synonyms: fourth, tetradic, quadruple, fourfold, quadrant
Antonyms: primary, initial, singular, solitary, unique
Similar Words: tertiary, quartic, cubic, sequential, secondary

Synonyms, antonyms, and similar words for "quaternaire" in French

Synonyms: quatrième, quadruple, quart
Antonyms: primaire, initial, solitaire
Similar Words: tertiaire, cubic, secondaire, séquentiel

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