Allotropes: Diamond and Graphite

• What are the two allotropes of carbon discussed in the video?

  Diamond and graphite
• What is an allotrope?

  Different structural forms of the same element
• In what physical state are carbon allotropes found?

  Solid state
• What type of structure do both diamond and graphite have?

  Giant covalent structures
• How does the bonding in diamond differ from that in graphite?

  Diamond bonds four carbons; graphite bonds three
• What is the arrangement of carbon atoms in diamond?

  Regular 3D pattern
• Why is diamond very strong?

  It has strong covalent bonds requiring high energy to break
• Does diamond conduct electricity?

  No, it has no free electrons or ions
• How are carbon atoms arranged in graphite?

  In hexagons forming large flat sheets
• What allows graphite to be relatively soft compared to diamond?

  Weak forces between layers allow sliding
• Why does graphite have a high melting point?

  Individual layers are strongly held by covalent bonds
• What happens to the spare electron in graphite?

  It becomes delocalized and can move freely
• What property allows graphite to conduct electricity and heat?

  Presence of delocalized electrons
• What is a single layer of graphite called?

  Graphene
• What can scientists do with isolated layers of graphene?

  Make other structures like spheres and tubes
• What are the key differences between diamond and graphite?

  • Diamond:
  • Bonds four carbon atoms
  • Regular 3D structure
  • Very strong, high melting point
  • Does not conduct electricity
  • Graphite:
  • Bonds three carbon atoms
  • Arranged in hexagons, forms layers
  • Relatively soft, high melting point
  • Conducts electricity due to delocalized electrons
• What are the implications of the properties of diamond and graphite in real-world applications?

  • Diamond:
  • Used in cutting tools due to hardness
  • Not suitable for electrical applications
  • Graphite:
  • Used in lubricants due to softness
  • Used in batteries and electrodes due to conductivity