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How are the crystal structures of diamond and graphite different?

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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 1.54×10−8 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 1.42×10−8 cm. The layers are held together by weak van der Waals forces rather than strong covalent bonds, with an interlayer distance of 3.37×10−8 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