Diamond and graphite Flashcards Preview

GSHS AQA C2 Additional Chemistry > Diamond and graphite > Flashcards

Flashcards in Diamond and graphite Deck (11)
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1
Q

What element is diamond and graphite made of?

A

Carbon

2
Q

What type of bonds are there between the carbon atoms in diamond and graphite?

A

Covalent

3
Q

In diamond, how many covalent bonds does each carbon atom make to other carbon atoms?

A

4

4
Q

Why does diamond have such a high melting point?

A

It takes a lot of energy to break the strong covalent bonds

5
Q

Why is diamond so hard?

A

The covalent bonds between carbon atoms are very strong

6
Q

Why does diamond not conduct electricity?

A

There are no free (delocalised) electrons

7
Q

In graphite, how many covalent bonds does each carbon atom make to other carbon atoms?

A

3

8
Q

Why does graphite have such a high melting point?

A

It takes a lot of energy to break the strong covalent bonds

9
Q

Describe the bonding and structure of graphite

A

Each carbon forms 3 covalent bonds with other carbon atoms to form layers.
The layers have weak forces between them.
One electron from each carbon atom becomes delocalised.

10
Q

Why is graphite soft and slippery (it is often used as a lubricant)?

A

The layers of carbon atoms can slide over each other easily.

11
Q

Why does graphite conduct electricity?

A

One electron from each carbon atom becomes delocalised and can move through the structure