noun
- A crystal form in which only half of the faces of a complete form are present, resulting in asymmetry.
Usage: mineralogy; crystallography
Examples
- The mineral tourmaline often exhibits hemimorphism, with different crystal faces at each end.
- Hemimorphism is an important concept in the study of crystal symmetry and mineral classification.
- The asymmetrical appearance of the crystal was due to hemimorphism rather than a defect in formation.
- Geologists use hemimorphism to help identify and classify certain mineral specimens.