Ncert Exercises & Solutions

Explain the difference in properties of diamond and graphite on the basis of their structures.

Diamond	Graphite
It has a crystalline lattice.	It has a layered structure.
In diamond, each carbon atom is ${sp}^{3}$ hybridized and is bonded to four other carbon atoms through a $σ$ bond.	In graphite, each carbon is ${sp}^{2}$ hybridized and is bonded to three other carbon atoms through a $σ$ bond. The fourth electron forms a n bond.
It is made up of tetrahedral units.	It has a planar geometry.
The C-C bond length in diamond is 154 pm.	The C-C bond length in graphite is 141.5 pm.
It has a rigid covalent bond network which is difficult to break.	It is quite soft and its layers can be separated easily.
It acts as an electrical Insulator.	It is a good conductor of electricity.