Chemistry, 4.2.3- Structure and Bonding of carbon

Describe the structure of diamond. [2 marks]

• Each carbon atom form 4 covalent bonds with other carbon atoms.

• Giant covalent structure.

Two key properties of diamonds are high boiling point and does not conduct electricity.
Explain how the structure of a diamond is related to both properties. [4 marks]

• Giant covalent structure.

• (So) it require great deal of energy to break millions of covalent bonds.

• All outer electron is in covalent bonds.

• (So) there are no free electron.

Describe the structure of buckminsterfullerene. [1 mark]

Hollow spherical shape.

State two uses of fullerenes. [2 marks]

• Catalyst

• Delivery drug

Explain why graphite is soft and slippery conductor. [3 marks]

• Layered structure of hexagonal rings.

• Weak intermolecular forces between layers

• (So) the layers can slide over each other.

Explain why graphite is good electrical conductor. [3 marks]

• Only three electrons per carbon atom used in covalent bonds.

• One delocalised electron per carbon atom.

• delocalised electron can move around and carry charge.