oktett

Oktett is the German word for octet, referring to a group of eight items or components. The term is used in several domains, including music, chemistry, and information technology, with each field adopting its own customary sense.

In classical music, ein Oktett describes a chamber ensemble of eight players, often with mixed instruments. The term is also used for works composed specifically for eight performers as a distinct category in the German-speaking tradition.

In chemistry and atomic theory, the Oktett concept is tied to the octet rule: atoms tend to achieve eight electrons in their valence shell to reach chemical stability. This idea helps explain common bonding patterns for many main-group elements, including carbon, nitrogen, and the halogens, though there are notable exceptions and cases of expanded octets in heavier elements and transition metals.

In computing, Oktett denotes an eight-bit data unit, i.e., a byte. The term corresponds to the English octet and is used in technical specifications, data formats, and networking to denote a standard size of eight bits.