Polymorphism and allotropy Crystal

the same group of atoms can solidify in many different ways. polymorphism ability of solid exist in more 1 crystal form. example, water ice ordinarily found in hexagonal form ice ih, can exist cubic ice ic, rhombohedral ice ii, , many other forms. different polymorphs called different phases.

in addition, same atoms may able form noncrystalline phases. example, water can form amorphous ice, while sio2 can form both fused silica (an amorphous glass) , quartz (a crystal). likewise, if substance can form crystals, can form polycrystals.

for pure chemical elements, polymorphism known allotropy. example, diamond , graphite 2 crystalline forms of carbon, while amorphous carbon noncrystalline form. polymorphs, despite having same atoms, may have wildly different properties. example, diamond among hardest substances known, while graphite soft used lubricant.

polyamorphism similar phenomenon same atoms can exist in more 1 amorphous solid form.