Question

Explain briefly :

Graphite conducts electricity while diamond does not, although both are the forms of carbon.

Answer 1

Graphite

• Graphite is one of the crystalline allotropes of Carbon.
• It has a layered structure.
• It is formed when each Carbon atom combines with three other Carbon atoms forming a layer of hexagonal rings bonded with weak forces of attraction.
• Due to the presence of one valence electron, graphite has a tendency to conduct heat and electricity.
• Hence, Graphite is a good conductor of heat and electricity.

Diamond

• Diamond is also one of the crystalline allotropes of Carbon.
• It has a three-dimensional tetrahedral geometry.
• Diamonds are formed inside the earth's surface under high temperature and pressure.
• Due to this each Carbon atom is bonded with four other carbon atoms by a covalent bond.
• There is no free electron in its crystal. Hence, diamond is a bad conductor of heat and electricity.