7) Allotropes of Carbon

What type of structure does diamond have?

Diamond has a giant covalent structure where each carbon atom forms four covalent bonds, making it very hard.

Why does diamond have a high melting point?

Because the strong covalent bonds between carbon atoms require a lot of energy to break.

Does diamond conduct electricity?

No, diamond does not conduct electricity because it has no free electrons or ions.

What is the structure of graphite?

Graphite has carbon atoms arranged in hexagonal layers, with each atom forming three covalent bonds.

Why is graphite slippery?

Graphite is slippery because the layers are held together by weak forces, allowing them to slide over each other.

What is graphene?

Graphene is a single layer of carbon atoms arranged in hexagons, just one atom thick.

What are fullerenes?

Fullerenes are molecules of carbon that form closed tubes or hollow spheres, such as Buckminsterfullerene (C₆₀).

What are fullerenes used for?

Fullerenes can be used to trap molecules, deliver drugs, or act as industrial catalysts and lubricants.

What are nanotubes?

Nanotubes are tiny carbon cylinders with a high length-to-diameter ratio, and they can conduct electricity and heat.

What is nanotechnology?

Nanotechnology is the use of tiny structures like nanotubes in applications like electronics or to strengthen materials.