Enantiotropic

/ˌɛnæntiəˈtrɒpɪk/ adjective

Definition

Relating to or exhibiting enantiotropism, where a substance can exist in two different solid forms that can transform into each other depending on temperature.

Etymology

From Greek 'enantios' (opposite) + 'tropos' (turning), coined in 19th-century chemistry. The prefix 'enantiotropic' describes substances that turn or change between opposite forms at different conditions.

Kelly Says

Enantiotropic materials are like shape-shifters: the same chemical can be a completely different solid depending on whether it's hot or cold. This matters in drug manufacturing because the 'wrong' form of a medicine might not work in your body!

Related Words

Explore More Words

Get the Word Orb API

Complete word intelligence in one call. Free tier — 50 lookups/day.