Dimorphism (Noun)
Meaning 1
(biology) the existence of two forms of individual within the same animal species (independent of sex differences).
Classification
Nouns denoting natural phenomena.
Meaning 2
(chemistry) the property of certain substances that enables them to exist in two distinct crystalline forms.
Classification
Nouns denoting natural phenomena.
Examples
- The mineral exhibited dimorphism, forming both monoclinic and orthorhombic crystals depending on the conditions of its formation.
- Dimorphism is a rare phenomenon in chemistry, but it is seen in certain substances such as calcium carbonate.
- The team of researchers studied the dimorphism of a new compound, analyzing the differences between its two crystalline forms.
- By manipulating the conditions of crystallization, the scientists were able to induce dimorphism in a substance that normally only formed one type of crystal.
- The unique properties of the dimorphic compound made it useful for a range of applications, from pharmaceuticals to electronics.