Explain why graphite is able to conduct electrcity and diamond is not

Carbon in graphite has three bonds, where as the carbon atoms in diamond form four bonds to one another. As carbon has 4 electrons in its outer shell, this means graphite has one free electron which is able to conduct electricty. Diamond, in comparison, does not have a free electron and so cannot conduct electricity.

QJ
Answered by Qasim J. Chemistry tutor

8195 Views

See similar Chemistry GCSE tutors

Related Chemistry GCSE answers

All answers ▸

During fractional distillation, what are we seperating and how are we seperating them?


In one experiment, the temperature of 50 g of water increased from 22.0 °C to 38.4 °C. The mass of alcohol burned was 0.8 g. Calculate the heat energy (Q) in joules, released by burning 0.8 g of the alcohol.


Using a reaction as an example, explain why bromine is more reactive than iodine in terms of electrons.


The forward direction of a chemical reaction is exothermic. What happens if you increase the temperature of the system?


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