1. different physical forms of the same chemical element that exist in the same physical state
Usage: chemistry; plural form

Examples

• Diamond and graphite are allotropes of carbon.
• Oxygen and ozone are allotropes of the same element.
• The chemistry teacher explained how allotropes have different properties despite being made of identical atoms.
• Scientists study various allotropes to understand how atomic arrangement affects material properties.
• White phosphorus and red phosphorus are common allotropes used in different applications.
• The discovery of new carbon allotropes like fullerenes revolutionized materials science.