Why can graphite conduct electricity but diamond can not?

In diamond the carbon atoms are bonded to four other atoms. Whereas, in graphite each carbon atom is only bonded to three other atoms. Therefore, there are delocalised (free) electrons in graphite, which can move and carry a charge so graphite conducts electricty.

SS
Answered by Sophie S. Chemistry tutor

64286 Views

See similar Chemistry GCSE tutors

Related Chemistry GCSE answers

All answers ▸

In terms of electron transfer describe what happens when one atom of calcium reacts with two atoms of chlorine and give the ions that are formed.


How to calculate the number of protons, neutrons and electrons in an atom of chlorine?


How do you calculate the number of moles of CO2 molecules if the mass is 22g


Give an advantage of hard water.


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