Why can graphite conduct electricity but not diamond?

In graphite, each carbon atom is covalently bonded to three other carbon atoms. One of the four outer shell electrons of each carbon atom is therefore not engaged in bonding, and becomes delocalised. These delocalised electrons are free to move around the structure, carrying charge and allowing graphite to conduct electricity.

However, in diamond, each carbon atom is covalently bonded to four other carbon atoms. All four of the outer shell electrons in each carbon atom are engaged in bonding, leaving no delocalised electrons free to move around the structure and carry charge.

TA
Answered by Tierney A. • Chemistry tutor

86425 Views

See similar Chemistry GCSE tutors

Related Chemistry GCSE answers

All answers â–¸

What happens to the melting and boiling points of the halogens as you go down the group?


How can I increase the rate of reaction between two substances, without changing the chemicals I use?


How to balance chemical equations (harder level question): C6H12O6 + O2 --> CO2 + H2O


A compound is found to contain 3.1% Hydrogen, 65.3% Oxygen and 31.6% Phosphorus. Work out its empirical formula.


We're here to help

contact us iconContact ustelephone icon+44 (0) 203 773 6020
Facebook logoInstagram logoLinkedIn logo

MyTutor is part of the IXL family of brands:

© 2025 by IXL Learning