Allotrope
When an element exists in two or more different forms - whether as a solid, liquid or gas - it is called an allotrope. In other words, the element exists in various forms that share a similar chemical structure but differ in some way.
Carbon has various allotropes, including diamond, graphene, graphite and charcoal.
Allotropes can themselves form the basic structural elements of other allotropes. For instance, graphene is an allotrope of carbon, but graphene itself forms the basic structural element of other allotropes such as graphite and charcoal.
The ability of a material to be able to exist in one or more such forms is called allotropy.
[edit] Related articles on Designing Buildings Wiki
Featured articles
Check out some of the best features and news from Designing Buildings as well as key stories from around the web.
CIOB reports 57% are using artificial intelligence technologies.
More of England’s ‘hidden heroes’ will be celebrated.
CIAT calls for retrofit to be a priority.
Version 6 is now available, along with guidance for ECA members.
Post-War Homes: mid-century British architecture. Book review.
CIAT reflects on the party conferences.
CIOB announce the winners of the Art of Building photography competition.
National Scheme of Delegation introduced.
The cost of employing people remains a concern.
Code of Practice for Electrical Energy Storage Systems.
ECA calls on members to comment on draft 4th edition.
Bringing together expertise and creating cultural benefits.
CIOB celebrates positive Ofsted report.