ALLOTROPY

Diamond and Graphite

 Allotropy
This is the phenomenon whereby there are
different crystalline forms of the same
element.
Carbon has two allotropes
The Structure of Diamond
Diamond consists of carbon
atoms bonded in a tetrahedral
arrangement.Each carbon atom
is covalently bonded to four
other carbon atoms.
The covalent bonds are very
strong.This makes diamond
very hard. It is the hardest
substance known.
The Structure of Graphite
Graphite also consists of
carbon atoms. These are in a
hexagonal arrangement.Each
carbon atom is covalently
bonded to three other atoms.A
sea of delocalized electrons lie
between the layers.
The layers of graphite can slide
over each other due to the
weak forces between them.
This enables graphite to make
scratches on paper as it is soft
and flaky.
Uses of Diamond
Uses of Graphite