| allotropy | <chemistry> The property of existing in two or more conditions which are distinct in their physical or chemical relations. 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. Origin: Gr. Other + direction, way, to turn: cf. F. Allotropie. Source: Websters Dictionary (01 Mar 1998) |
|---|