What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
isotropic
Example
The material is isotropic, meaning it has the same properties in all directions. [isotropic: adjective]
Example
The heat transfer in the system is isotropic, meaning it occurs uniformly in all directions. [isotropic: adjective]
homogeneous
Example
The mixture is homogeneous, meaning it has uniform composition throughout. [homogeneous: adjective]
Example
The temperature distribution in the system is homogeneous, meaning it is consistent throughout. [homogeneous: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Homogeneous is more commonly used than isotropic in everyday language, especially in chemistry and biology. Isotropic is more specialized and is primarily used in physics and materials science.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between isotropic and homogeneous?
Both isotropic and homogeneous are technical terms and are generally used in formal or scientific contexts.