Explain why diamond cannot conduct electricity but graphite can.

In the atomic structure of diamond, each carbon is bonded to four other carbons using all of its outer electrons, leaving none free to carry a charge. In graphite not all of the electrons are used in bonding, therefore the delocalised electrons are free to move through the structure, carrying a charge.

Answered by Lucy B. Chemistry tutor

7252 Views

See similar Chemistry GCSE tutors

Related Chemistry GCSE answers

All answers ▸

Why don't atoms have an overall charge?


Explain in terms of structure and bonding why graphite conducts electricity.


Why is chlorine more reactive than iodine?


Why is chlorine more reactive than iodine?


We're here to help

contact us iconContact usWhatsapp logoMessage us on Whatsapptelephone icon+44 (0) 203 773 6020
Facebook logoInstagram logoLinkedIn logo
Cookie Preferences