allotropic

/,ælə'trɔpik/

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Explanation of "Allotropic"

Definition: The word "allotropic" is an adjective that describes substances that can exist in different forms, particularly in the context of certain elements. When an element is allotropic, it means that it can have different structural forms in the same physical state.

Examples

1. Basic Example: Carbon is an allotropic element because it can exist as both diamond and graphite, which have very different properties.
2. Advanced Example: The allotropic forms of sulfur include rhombic sulfur and monoclinic sulfur, each with distinct physical characteristics.

Word Variants

• Allotropism (noun): The phenomenon of an element existing in different forms.
  • Example: "Allotropism is important in understanding the properties of carbon."
• Allotrope (noun): A specific form of an element that exhibits allotropic behavior.
  • Example: "Diamond and graphite are two allotropes of carbon."

Different Meanings

In general usage, "allotropic" is mainly used in chemistry. It doesn't have significant alternate meanings outside this context.

Synonyms

• Allotropic doesn't have direct synonyms since it's a specific scientific term, but you might use "different forms" or "varieties" in a broader sense when explaining the concept without using the word.

Related Idioms and Phrasal Verbs

There are no common idioms or phrasal verbs that include the word "allotropic," as it is a specialized term used primarily in scientific discussions.

Summary

In conclusion, "allotropic" is a specialized term used in chemistry to describe elements that can exist in different structural forms, such as carbon and sulfur.

Academic

Adjective

1. of or related to or exhibiting allotropism
   • carbon and sulfur and phosphorus are allotropic elements

Synonyms

• allotropical