Allomerizing

/əˈlɒməraɪzɪŋ/ verb

Definition

Undergoing or causing a change in molecular composition or structure that alters physical properties while maintaining the same chemical formula.

Etymology

From 'allomerize,' derived from 'allomer' (Greek 'allo-' meaning other, plus '-mer' for part or unit). This term developed in chemistry to describe polymorphic transformations.

Kelly Says

Allomerizing is what happens when a mineral transforms into a different form—diamond and graphite are allomers of carbon, and the process of one turning into the other involves allomerizing, where atoms rearrange without changing the total composition.

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