Q.What is allotropy ?
Step 1. Allotropy refers specifically to ELEMENTS (not compounds) existing in two or more distinct forms.
Step 2. These different forms -- called allotropes -- differ in how their atoms are bonded together or arranged (for example O2's simple diatomic molecule versus O3's bent triatomic molecule, or S8's puckered ring versus other sulfur ring sizes), while remaining in the same physical state as each other.
Step 3. Because the atoms are arranged differently, allotropes of the same element can have quite different physical and even chemical properties -- for instance O3 (ozone) is a far stronger oxidising agent than O2.
Allotropy is the existence of an element in two or more structurally distinct forms (allotropes) within the same physical state, such as dioxygen (O2) and ozone (O3), both gases but with different molecular structure and reactivity.
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