6 (a) The structures of diamond and graphite are shown. (i) State the maximum number of covalent bonds formed by a carbon atom in a diamond crystal. (ii) Which of the following statements about diamond and graphite is true? Put a cross (X) in the box next to your answer. A) they are both good conductors of electricity B) they are both soluble in water C) they both cut glass D) they both have high melting points (iii) Explain, in terms of its structure, why graphite is able to be used as a lubricant.

GCSE Edexcel Chemistry Graphite: 6 (a) The structures of diamond

6 (a) The structures of diamond and graphite are shown - Edexcel - GCSE Chemistry - Question 6 - 2015 - Paper 1

Question 6

6 (a) The structures of diamond and graphite are shown. (i) State the maximum number of covalent bonds formed by a carbon atom in a diamond crystal. (ii) Which of ... show full transcript

Worked Solution & Example Answer:6 (a) The structures of diamond and graphite are shown - Edexcel - GCSE Chemistry - Question 6 - 2015 - Paper 1

Step 1

State the maximum number of covalent bonds formed by a carbon atom in a diamond crystal.

96%

114 rated

Answer

In a diamond crystal, each carbon atom forms a maximum of four covalent bonds with four other carbon atoms. This tetrahedral arrangement is responsible for the strong structure of diamond.

Step 2

Which of the following statements about diamond and graphite is true? Put a cross (X) in the box next to your answer.

99%

104 rated

Answer

The correct answer is D) they both have high melting points. Diamond has a very high melting point due to its strong covalent bonding throughout its structure, and graphite also has a high melting point owing to the strong bonds within its layers.

Step 3

Explain, in terms of its structure, why graphite is able to be used as a lubricant.

96%

101 rated

Answer

Graphite consists of layers of carbon atoms arranged in a hexagonal lattice. These layers are held together by weak van der Waals forces, allowing them to slide over each other easily. This property of interlayer movement gives graphite its lubricating ability, as the layers can easily shift, reducing friction between surfaces.

6 (a) The structures of diamond and graphite are shown - Edexcel - GCSE Chemistry - Question 6 - 2015 - Paper 1

Worked Solution & Example Answer:6 (a) The structures of diamond and graphite are shown - Edexcel - GCSE Chemistry - Question 6 - 2015 - Paper 1

State the maximum number of covalent bonds formed by a carbon atom in a diamond crystal.

Which of the following statements about diamond and graphite is true? Put a cross (X) in the box next to your answer.

Explain, in terms of its structure, why graphite is able to be used as a lubricant.

Join the GCSE students using SimpleStudy...