2006-06-05 12:16:02 · 4 answers · asked by summercane11 1 in Science & Mathematics ➔ Physics
Diamond has a tetrahedral, three dimensional crystal structure. Each carbon atom is firmly bonded to all its neighbors, making for a very solid structure. Graphite has a flat, hexagonal crystal structure. The atoms are just bonded in sheets. The sheets can easily slide past each other, and can be broken much more easily than the diamond structure.
2006-06-05 12:36:38 · answer #1 · answered by injanier 7 · 0⤊ 0⤋
"injanier" has answered the question very well.
The different crystalline structures within the Carbon (be it diamond or graphite) greatly determine the physical properties of the substance. Whereas a diamond is hard and clear and a poor conductor, graphite is soft, black, and does conduct electricity.
2006-06-05 22:14:16 · answer #2 · answered by mrjeffy321 7 · 0⤊ 0⤋
good question, but the first answer is almost ******* stupid!
what makes them different is the arrangement of the carbon in its molecules!
2006-06-05 19:34:01 · answer #3 · answered by WTFK 2 · 0⤊ 0⤋
it is simple, it is the arrangement of the carbon molecules and the bonding between the molecules
2006-06-06 02:35:43 · answer #4 · answered by new_guy2k6 2 · 0⤊ 0⤋