allotropism

[Eng. allotropy; -ism.] The same as ALLOTROPY (q. v.). al-lot-rop-ỹ, ăl-lô-trop-ỹ, s . [Gr. ἀλλότροπος ( allotropos ) = of or in another manner; ἄλλος ( allos ) = another, and τροπή ( trope ) = a turn, turning, change; τρέπω ( trepo ) = to turn.] The name given by Berzelius to the variation of properties which is observed in many substances. For instance, there are some minerals which crystallise in two distinct and unallied form of crystals. This dimorphism is a case of allotropy. (Graham's Chemistry , vol 162 1, pp. 176-81.) For the diamond and carbon see example under ALLOTROPIC. So also there is a variety of sulphur which is soluble, and another which is insoluble; and a common, and again an amorphous phosphorus differing in their qualities.