what is the difference between graphite and fullerene?

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Solution

Both the Fullerene and Graphite are the allotropes of carbon. So, they are not very different though have some difference in structural and other chemical behavior as follows:
Properties Graphite Fullerene
1. Construction It consists of sp² hybridized carbon atoms linked together in flat six membered hexagonal ring structure. It consists of a huge no. of carbon atoms nearly 60/unit and contains de localization of pi-molecular orbitals which leads the carbon atoms to have a mixture of sp² and sp³ hybridization.
2. Geometry The atoms are arranged in trigonal pyramidal geometry. The atoms are arranged as spherical pentagonal or hexagonal structures.
3. Soft and brittle nature It is soft and slippery and often used as lubricant It has comparatively less lubricity.
4. Electric nature It is a good conductor of electricity. It is an insulator.
5. Melting points High melting points. Low melting points.

Properties	Graphite	Fullerene
1. Construction	It consists of sp² hybridized carbon atoms linked together in flat six membered hexagonal ring structure.	It consists of a huge no. of carbon atoms nearly 60/unit and contains de localization of pi-molecular orbitals which leads the carbon atoms to have a mixture of sp² and sp³ hybridization.
2. Geometry	The atoms are arranged in trigonal pyramidal geometry.	The atoms are arranged as spherical pentagonal or hexagonal structures.
3. Soft and brittle nature	It is soft and slippery and often used as lubricant	It has comparatively less lubricity.
4. Electric nature	It is a good conductor of electricity.	It is an insulator.
5. Melting points	High melting points.	Low melting points.