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How are the crystal structures of diamond and graphite different?
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carbon group element
Modern version of the periodic table of the elements (printable).
Diamond and graphite are two distinct allotropes of carbon with significantly different crystal structures:
- Diamond: Features an infinite three-dimensional tetrahedral network. Each carbon atom is covalently bonded to four others at the corners of a tetrahedron, with a bond length of cm. This rigid, compact structure results in extreme hardness and insulating properties.1
- Graphite: Consists of parallel, two-dimensional sheets of carbon atoms arranged in fused hexagonal rings. Within these layers, the bond distance is cm. The layers are held together by weak van der Waals forces rather than strong covalent bonds, with an interlayer distance of cm. This layered structure allows for the material's characteristic softness, lubricity, and electrical conductivity.1
While diamond is a rigid 3D lattice, graphite is a layered structure that can accommodate other molecules between its planes.1