Dimorphism (geology)
Dimorphism is the property of some minerals to exist in two different crystal systems, while still having the same chemical formula. An example: CaCO3, which exists as trigonal calcite or orthorhombic aragonite. A mineral's dimorph is the mineral that it is dimorphic with.[1][2] Dimorphism is not to be confused with allotropy, which refers to a difference in crystal structure of pure elements.
Trimorphism & Polymorphism
Trimorphism is the term used when a mineral has a total of three dimorphs,[3] while the term Polymorphism is used when there four or more. Silica, SiO2, is a good example, being found in nature as quartz, tridymite, cristobalite, coesite, and stishovite.[4] Pleomorphism is a synonym of polymorphism.[4]
See also
References
- ↑ "Definition of dimorphism - mindat.org glossary". www.mindat.org. Retrieved 2016-10-23.
- ↑ "Dimorphous - Minerals.net Glossary of Terms". www.minerals.net. Retrieved 2016-10-23.
- ↑ "Definition of trimorphism - mindat.org glossary". www.mindat.org. Retrieved 2016-10-23.
- 1 2 "Definition of polymorphism - mindat.org glossary". www.mindat.org. Retrieved 2016-10-23.
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