What does "amorphous" indicate?

Prepare for the GRE Basic Exam. Enhance your vocabulary with flashcards and challenging multiple-choice questions. Each query comes with hints and explanations. Elevate your lexicon and ace the exam!

The term "amorphous" refers to something that lacks a definite form or specific shape. This could apply to various contexts, such as materials that do not have a crystalline structure, like certain types of glass or gels which flow and mold into any shape. The word itself derives from the Greek "a-" meaning "without" and "morphe" meaning "form."

In contrast to options that describe having clarity in structure, being solid, or being rigid, "amorphous" captures the essence of being indistinct and formless. For instance, liquids and gases are often described as amorphous because they take the shape of their containers without a fixed volume or shape, distinguishing them from structured solids. Therefore, recognizing that "amorphous" signifies the absence of defined physical characteristics is key to understanding its proper usage in various contexts.

Subscribe

Get the latest from Examzify

You can unsubscribe at any time. Read our privacy policy