Carbon is the chemical element with symbol C and atomic number 6. As a member of group 14 on the periodic table, it is nonmetallic. It is special as it has many allotrope.
Allotropy or allotropism is a behavior shown by some chemical elements: these elements can exist in two or more different forms, known as allotropes of that element. In each allotrope, the element's atoms are bonded together in a different manner, resulting in a different form.
Probably the most common allotrope of carbon is the diamond. Diamonds are formed under tremendous heat and pressure. These conditions exist 150 km to 200 km beneath the earth's surface, where the temperatures are extremely high ranging from 900ºC to 1300ºC.The diamond is the hardest known natural mineral in the world. Therefore, no known substance can even scratch a diamond. Diamonds are usually used for industrial puposes ,as it is hard and can sustain high temperatures, and as jewelry. The chemical bond of a diamond form an inflexible three dimensional lattice(a structure made from strips which cross over each other with spaces between). This structure makes it weaker than the other allotropes of carbon.
Graphite, also a common allotrope of carbon, is used in our everyday life as pencil lead. The atoms in graphite are tightly bonded into sheets, which can slide easily over one another. Graphite is also a conductor of electricity, therefore it can be used in batteries and in electric motors. The picture below shows how the atoms are arranged.
Another form of carbon is Buckminster fullerine. It is a recently discovered allotrope of carbon. It is nicknamed “bucky ball” due to its spherical atomic structure. In recent years, fullerene compounds have been found to act as superconductors, substances capable of conducting electricity without resistance at very low temperatures. This could also be a cure for AIDS. Research has found that this bucky ball can interfere with the reproductive system of HIV.
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