Carbon and its Compounds — Science STD 10 — Question

In the crystalline form of carbon, many atoms are bonded together in a repeating pattern. The arrangement of atoms in the crystal differs for each form of carbon. Two forms are:

1. Diamond:

Diamond is a form of carbon in which each carbon atom is covalently bonded to four other carbon atoms. This forms a strong, rigid, three-dimensional structure . Diamond is the hardest natural substance.

2. Graphite:

Graphite is a form of crystalline carbon in which each carbon atom is covalently bonded to three other carbon atoms. The carbon atoms are arranged in layers, with strong bonds within each layer but only weak bonds between layers. The weak bonds between layers allow the layers to slide over one another, so graphite is relatively soft and slippery. This makes it useful as a lubricant.