Allotropes (Leaving Cert Chemistry): Flashcards

Different physical forms of the same element

Diamond, graphite, graphene, fullerenes

Giant 3D covalent network, tetrahedral

Strong covalent bonds throughout 3D structure

Does not conduct; no free electrons

$3500°C$

Flat sheets/layers, each C bonds to 3 others

Weak forces between layers let them slide

Conducts well; delocalised electrons move freely

Single layer of graphite

Transparent, almost invisible

$C_{60}$ (60 C atoms) in football shape, hollow

$280°C$

Insoluble in water, soluble in organic solvents

Tubes of graphene rolled into cylinders