hemimorphic

Hemimorphic refers to a type of crystal growth where the crystal exhibits a distinct asymmetry in its external form. This asymmetry is typically characterized by a single dominant face or a single dominant edge, resulting in a non-centrosymmetric crystal structure. Hemimorphic crystals are often found in minerals that belong to the non-centrosymmetric crystal system, such as the trigonal, hexagonal, and orthorhombic systems.

The term "hemimorphic" is derived from the Greek words "hemi," meaning half, and "morph," meaning form. This term was coined by the French mineralogist René Just Haüy in the early 19th century to describe crystals that exhibit a single dominant face or edge. Hemimorphic crystals are often associated with minerals that exhibit piezoelectricity, pyroelectricity, or ferroelectricity, as these properties are often associated with non-centrosymmetric crystal structures.

Examples of hemimorphic minerals include tourmaline, topaz, and quartz. These minerals exhibit a distinct asymmetry in their crystal structure, which is reflected in their external form. Hemimorphic crystals are often used in the study of crystal growth and symmetry, as well as in the development of new materials with unique properties.