Properties & Structures of Graphite & Diamonds

The lead in pencils comes from graphite.

Graphite and diamonds share a common chemical makeup but exist worlds apart. Graphite plays a ubiquitous role, appearing everywhere on school desks, in homes and at the office. Diamonds, however, dot jewelry counters and remain a much sought after luxury item.

Carbon

While both graphite and diamonds contain drastically different properties, carbon makes up the entire chemical makeup of both. However, the way the carbon atoms come together determines the structure.

Diamonds

In a diamond, the carbon atoms shape a tetrahedral structure, according to Scientific American magazine. This structure gives the diamond a high density, hardness and strength. Other properties of diamonds include heat and sound conductivity, as well as electrical resistance.

Graphite

Graphite, on the other hand, results when the carbon atoms form in layers, creating a hexagonal chemical arrangement, writes Eastern New Mexico University. This chicken wire-like structure gives graphite a soft property that cleaves easily and it also absorbs light.

References

• Scientific American: How Can Graphite and Diamond be So Different If They are Both Composed of Pure Carbon?
• Eastern New Mexico University: Diamond and Graphite

Resources

• Amethyst Galleries: Graphite
• Amethyst Galleries: The Mineral Diamond