Carbon in Lithosphere Flashcards
1
Q
What are diamond and graphite?
A
They are both minerals formed from pure carbon that is found in the lithosphere
2
Q
What is the carbon structure of diamond?
A
Each carbon atom is covalently bonded to four other carbon atoms. This explains why diamond is very hard
3
Q
What is the carbon structure of graphite?
A
Each carbon atom is covalently bonded to three other carbon atoms and they’re arranged in sheets that can slide easily over each other. This explains why carbon is soft
4
Q
What happens to spare electrons in graphite?
A
They can move between the layers of atoms, so graphite can conduct electricity
5
Q
What is similar about graphite and diamond?
A
Their covalent bonds are strong, so they have high melting points and are insoluble in water
