Why is diamond considered to be the hardest substance on Earth although it is made up of carbon just like graphite which is brittle explain?
While there are strong covalent bonds between carbon atoms in each layer, there are only weak forces between layers. This allows layers of carbon to slide over each other in graphite. In this rigid network atoms cannot move. This explains why diamonds are so hard and have such a high melting point.
Why is diamond hard covalent bonds?
Properties and uses The rigid network of carbon atoms, held together by strong covalent bonds, makes diamond very hard. Like silica, diamond has a very high melting point and it does not conduct electricity.
Does diamond have weak covalent bonds?
In diamond, carbon atoms form four strong covalent bonds with other carbon atoms. There are no weak bonds in this structure, so it takes a lot more energy to break this material, giving rise to the high strength of diamond.
Are diamonds the toughest?
Diamond sits at the top of the Mohs scale of hardness at number 10 as the hardest material. The Mohs scale rates relative hardness among materials. Diamond is composed of pure carbon and the atomic bonding of the atoms makes it the hardest material.
Is diamond the strongest bond?
The Covalent Bond formed in DIAMOND is the strongest as far as I know. The C-C bond is 100\% covalent in nature and is the strongest bond. The hardness and strength of the diamond molecule is due to the Molecular network (as well as in Quartz ). A Diamond molecule has a continuous C-C bonds and forms a giant molecule.
Why diamond is hard graphite is soft?
The carbon atoms in graphite appear to bond with weaker intermolecular forces, allowing the layers to move over one another. The weak intermolecular forces are known as the weak Van der Waals forces. Therefore, diamond is hard but graphite is soft and slippery even though both have carbon present in them.
Why diamond is harder than ionic compounds?
Diamond is made up of many carbon atoms joined together by covalent bonds . Number of covalent bonds are greater in diamond , and net attractive forces are far more greater than net repulsive forces . Hence , diamond is a harder material .