Allotropy (Noun)
Meaning
The phenomenon of an element existing in two or more physical forms.
Classification
Nouns denoting natural phenomena.
Examples
- Carbon is a classic example of allotropy, existing as both diamond and graphite, two vastly different physical forms with distinct properties.
- The allotropy of sulfur is evident in its various forms, including orthorhombic, monoclinic, and rhombic crystals, each with unique characteristics.
- Phosphorus exhibits allotropy, existing as white phosphorus, a highly reactive and toxic form, and red phosphorus, a more stable and less reactive form.
- The allotropy of tin is observed in its two main forms: white tin, a malleable and ductile metal, and gray tin, a brittle and powdery form.
- Oxygen is another element that exhibits allotropy, existing as both ozone, a highly reactive gas, and dioxygen, the more common and stable form of oxygen found in the atmosphere.