Bipyramid

/baɪˈpɪrəmɪd/ noun

Definition

A three-dimensional geometric shape consisting of two pyramids joined base-to-base, commonly seen in chemistry and crystallography.

Etymology

From bi- (two) + pyramid (from Greek pyramis). The bipyramid became important in chemistry to describe molecular geometry, particularly in the 20th century.

Kelly Says

In chemistry, a 'trigonal bipyramid' describes the shape of molecules like phosphorus pentachloride—understanding these shapes is crucial because a molecule's geometry determines its properties and how it reacts with other molecules.

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