Allotrope
A different form of the same element, with its atoms arranged in a different pattern. The pattern changes the properties.
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Analogy
Like building a house or a bridge from the same Lego bricks.
Example
Diamond: 4 bonds each, very hardGraphite: 3 bonds each, layers slideFullerene: hollow ball of carbon atoms
In practice
Diamond is hard and clear. Graphite is soft and conducts electricity. Both are pure carbon.
Practice
Flashcards
- Why does graphite conduct electricity?Each carbon atom has a free electron that can move through the layers.
Interview questions
- Explain why diamond is very hard but graphite is soft, even though both are made only of carbon.
- Diamond: each carbon bonded to four others
- Strong covalent bonds in all directions
- Graphite: each carbon bonded to three others in layers
- Weak forces between layers let them slide
Questions people ask
What is graphene?
Graphene is a single layer of graphite, one atom thick, with carbon atoms in a hexagonal pattern. It is very strong, light and conducts electricity well. Scientists are testing it for electronics and strong materials. It is a different allotrope of carbon.
What are fullerenes used for?
Fullerenes are hollow shapes of carbon atoms, such as balls and tubes. Nanotubes are very strong and conduct electricity, so they are used in electronics and to strengthen materials. Hollow fullerenes can also be used to carry drugs around the body, as medicine can be placed inside.