Chemistry Reference
In-Depth Information
The various uses of graphite and diamond result
from their differing properties (Figure 3.34).
a small part of the structure
a view of a much larger part of the structure
a
The structure of diamond.
b
The Regent Diamond has been worn by Queen Elizabeth II.
Figure 3.33
rigid, three-dimensional structure and accounts for
the extreme hardness of the substances silicon(
iv
)
oxide and diamond. All the outer energy level
electrons of the carbon atoms are used to form
covalent bonds, so there are no electrons available to
enable diamond to conduct electricity.
It is possible to manufacture the different
allotropes of carbon. Diamond is made by heating
graphite to about 300 °C at very high pressures.
Diamond made by this method is known as industrial
diamond. Graphite can be made by heating a mixture
of coke and sand at a very high temperature in an
electric arc furnace for about 24 hours.
Figure 3.34
Uses of graphite (as a pencil 'lead' and in a squash racket)
and diamond (as a toothed saw to cut marble and on a dentist's drill).
