anisotropy
/ˌænaɪˈsɑtrəpi/
noun
- The property of being directionally dependent; having different physical properties (such as strength, speed, or conductivity) when measured in different directions.
- In materials science, anisotropy affects how a metal behaves when it is rolled or forged.
- Scientists study the anisotropy of cosmic microwave background radiation to learn about the early universe.
- The anisotropy of wood means it is stronger along the grain than across it.
Antonyms