write the properties and uses of diamond and graphite
Answers
They are identical chemically—both are composed of carbon (C), but physically, they are very different. Minerals which have the same chemistry but different crystal structures are called polymorphs . When you look at graphite and diamond, it is hard to imagine that they are identical chemically, for they are so different physically. Graphite is opaque and metallic- to earthy-looking, while diamonds are transparent and brilliant. Another important physical difference is their hardness. The hardness of minerals is compared using the Mohs Hardness Scale, a relative scale numbered 1 (softest) to 10 (hardest). Graphite is very soft and has a hardness of 1 to 2 on this scale. Diamonds are the hardest known natural substance and have a hardness of 10. No other naturally occurring substance has a hardness of 10. The crystal structure of graphite yields physical properties that permit the use of graphite as a lubricant and as pencil lead. The gem and industrial properties of diamond, physical properties that we cherish and exploit, are also a result of diamond's crystal structure.
Diamond: Diamond is a crystalline form of Carbon; Which is found in purest and hardest state of matter. Diamond is a brilliant and Hard substance. Diamond is tetragonal shaped because of it's carbon structure. Each carbon on diamond is attached to it's neighboring 3 carbon atoms, this makes the diamond Tetra shaped.
Uses of Diamond:
i) Diamond is used in ornaments and decoration.
ii) Diamond is used for Glass cutting and rock drilling machines.
iii) Diamond is used in making eye surgery knives.
iv) Diamond dust is used for polishing of other diamonds.
v) Diamonds is used in Space-crafts and Satellites to prevent radiations.
Property of Diamond:
i) Density of Diamond is 3.5g/cm^3
ii) Melting point of diamond is 3500 degree Celsius.
iii) There is no effect of Acids and bases on diamond.
iv) Diamond doesn't dissolve in any solvent.
v) Diamond is bad conductor of electricity; As it does not have free electrons.
vi) When diamond is heated at 800 degree Celsius in presence of oxygen, then only it released the CO2.