ALLOTROPY

allotropy, allotropism

(noun) the phenomenon of an element existing in two or more physical forms

Source: WordNet® 3.1


Etymology

Noun

allotropy (plural allotropies)

(chemistry) A property, exhibited by some elements of existing in multiple forms with different atomic structures.

Source: Wiktionary


Al*lot"ro*pism, Al*lot"ro*py, n. Etym: [Gr. allotropie.] (Chem.)

Definition: The property of existing in two or more conditions which are distinct in their physical or chemical relations.

Note: Thus, carbon occurs crystallized in octahedrons and other related forms, in a state of extreme hardness, in the diamond; it occurs in hexagonal forms, and of little hardness, in black lead; and again occurs in a third form, with entire softness, in lampblack and charcoal. In some cases, one of these is peculiarly an active state, and the other a passive one. Thus, ozone is an active state of oxygen, and is distinct from ordinary oxygen, which is the element in its passive state.

Source: Webster’s Unabridged Dictionary 1913 Edition



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Word of the Day

24 January 2025

AGITATION

(noun) a state of agitation or turbulent change or development; “the political ferment produced new leadership”; “social unrest”


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Coffee Trivia

Coffee starts as a yellow berry, changes into a red berry, and then is picked by hand to harvest. The red berry is de-shelled through a water soaking process and what’s left inside is the green coffee bean. This bean then dries in the sun for 3-5 days, where it is then packed and ready for sale.

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