allotropy

or al·lot·ro·pism

[ uh-lo-truh-pee ]

noun

, Chemistry.

1. a property of certain elements, as carbon, sulfur, and phosphorus, of existing in two or more distinct forms; allomorphism.

allotropy

/ ˌæləˈtrɒpɪk; əˈlɒtrəpɪ /

noun

1. the existence of an element in two or more physical forms. The most common elements having this property are carbon, sulphur, and phosphorus

Derived Forms

• ˌalloˈtropically, adverb
• allotropic, adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of allotropy¹

First recorded in 1840–50; allo- + -tropy

Example Sentences

Thus carbon occurs as the diamond, and as charcoal and plumbago, and is therefore regarded as a substance subject to allotropy.

From Project Gutenberg

The phenomenon of allotropy is not confined to the non-metals, for evidence has been advanced to show that allotropy is far commoner than hitherto supposed.

From Project Gutenberg

And this hypothesis is entirely in harmony with the phenomena of allotropy.

From Project Gutenberg

There seems to be a similar allotropy working in human nature.

From Project Gutenberg

But it is evident that this is but one of many passages where Indra by implication is compared to the sun; and comparisons do not indicate allotropy.

From Project Gutenberg