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hemimorphism

Upper-Intermediate (B2)

IPA: /ˌhɛmɪˈmɔːfɪzəm/

KK: /hɛməˈmɔrfɪzəm/

noun
Definition

A property in crystallography where the two ends of a crystal are different from each other in their shapes or surfaces.


Example

The mineral exhibits hemimorphism, showing distinct features at both ends of the crystal.


Conversation
Sloth A
Have you ever heard of the term hemimorphism?
Sloth B
No, I haven't. What does it mean?
Sloth A
It's actually a property in crystallography where the ends are different in their shapes.
Sloth B
That sounds interesting! I didn't know crystals could have such unique features.

Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
anisotropy
dichroism
polymorphism
Antonyms
isotropy
uniformity
homogeneity
Root Explanation

Hemimorphism is formed from "hemi-" (meaning half) and "morphe" (meaning form or shape). The term describes a condition where a crystal or mineral exhibits different forms on opposite sides, essentially having a 'half' form on each side.

Memory Tip

Think of 'half' ('hemi-') and 'form' ('morphe') to remember that hemimorphism refers to a shape that has different forms on each side.

Visually Confused Words
theriomorphism
theomorphism
perimorphism
homomorphism
dimorphism
demorphism
theromorphism
hypermorphism
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