Why is graphite softer than diamond if they are made up from the same covalently bonded carbon atoms?

Diamond is an extremely strong and rigid substance because of its molecular structure, which is giant covalent structure. This means that every carbon is covalently bonded to 4 other carbon molecules to form one big 3 dimensional structure, which is responsible for the hard and rigid properties of diamond. Graphite has a different molecular structure because each carbon only bonds to 3 other carbon atoms in a 2 dimensional hexaganol formation. These are covalent bonds just like in the diamond, so these flat structures are just as strong as diamond. Now, the part that makes the graphite softer than diamond is that the flat 'sheets' of carbon are bonded together by a much weaker bond than covalent bonds , called Van Der Waals forces. These are the bonds that break first to make graphite a soft substance.

GW
Answered by George W. Chemistry tutor

26347 Views

See similar Chemistry GCSE tutors

Related Chemistry GCSE answers

All answers ▸

Explain what occurs when an acid reacts with an alkali, in terms of ions and molecules. Also show the equation.


How do I know the formula for salts formed in a reaction?


Polyester is a common polymer used in clothing. State the name of the chemical reaction used to form polyester by reaction of ethanedioic acid and ethane-1,2-diol. Give the name of the molecule which is lost upon condensation of these two molecules.


How would you expect calcium carbonate to react with hydrochloric acid?


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:

© 2026 by IXL Learning