anisotropy

[ an-ahy-so-truh-pee ]

noun

1. Physics. the fact of having unequal physical properties along different axes:

   Even crystals with a simple cubic lattice structure, such as salt, display optical anisotropy; that is, the light propagates differently in different directions.

2. Botany. the fact of having different rates of growth in different directions:

   Anisotropy is a nearly ubiquitous feature of plant growth; it is necessary, if a growing plant organ is to produce any other form than a sphere.

Word History and Origins

Origin of anisotropy¹

First recorded in 1875–80; an- ¹( def ) + isotrop(ic) ( def ) + -y ³( def )

Example Sentences

The diurnal curve of movement should now show an inversion, if that movement was solely determined by the anisotropy of the organ.

From Project Gutenberg