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

87831 Views

See similar Chemistry GCSE tutors

Related Chemistry GCSE answers

All answers ▸

Name Group 0 in the periodic table. What is the tree in boiling points and why?


What is the enthalpy of atomisation?


Describe how and explain why vegetable oils are hardened for use in foods


What happens to the reactivity of Group 1 elements going down the group and describe why that trend occurs?


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