Giant Covalent Structures
Overview
Diamond and graphite are both made of nothing but carbon atoms, yet one is the hardest natural substance known and the other is soft enough to write with. The reason is not the atoms but how they are bonded into giant structures. This is one of chemistry's most striking lessons.
In this lesson you will learn what a giant covalent structure is, and how the different arrangements of carbon atoms in diamond and graphite give them such contrasting properties. You will link each property directly to the structure and bonding.
Objectives
- Describe the giant covalent structures of graphite and diamond.
- Relate the structures and bonding of graphite and diamond to their uses, limited to: (a) graphite as a lubricant and as an electrode (b) diamond in cutting tools.
- [Supplement] Describe the giant covalent structure of silicon(IV) oxide, SiO₂.
- [Supplement] Describe the similarity in properties between diamond and silicon(IV) oxide, related to their structures.
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Flashcards
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Lesson Note
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Lesson Evaluation
Congratulations on completing the lesson on Giant Covalent Structures. Now that youve explored the key concepts and ideas, its time to put your knowledge to the test. This section offers a variety of practice questions designed to reinforce your understanding and help you gauge your grasp of the material.
You will encounter a mix of question types, including multiple-choice questions, short answer questions, and essay questions. Each question is thoughtfully crafted to assess different aspects of your knowledge and critical thinking skills.
Use this evaluation section as an opportunity to reinforce your understanding of the topic and to identify any areas where you may need additional study. Don't be discouraged by any challenges you encounter; instead, view them as opportunities for growth and improvement.
- Which is a property of all giant covalent structures? A. Low melting point B. Very high melting point C. Made of small molecules D. Soft Answer: B
- How many covalent bonds does each carbon atom form in diamond? A. 1 B. 2 C. 3 D. 4 Answer: D
- Why does graphite conduct electricity? A. It contains ions B. It has delocalised electrons free to move C. It is a metal D. Its bonds are weak Answer: B
- Why is graphite soft and slippery? A. Its atoms are far apart B. Its layers can slide over one another C. It has only one bond per atom D. It melts easily Answer: B
- Which substance has a giant covalent structure? A. Carbon dioxide B. Water C. Diamond D. Oxygen Answer: C
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