What does allotrope mean?
An allotrope is a distinct structural form made by different bonding or arrangements of atoms of the same element.
Molecular process and core principles
Carbon forms a three-dimensional network in diamond and layers in graphite, producing different properties. O2 and ozone O3 are oxygen allotropes.
Evidence, applications and limits
Some forms are stable only at particular temperatures and pressures. Diffraction, spectroscopy and thermal analysis identify the structure present. Comparisons can be misleading unless temperature, pressure, concentration and sample purity are stated.
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