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2019 O Level Chem P1 Q6 — Structure and Bonding / Diamond and Graphite Solution

Structure and Bonding / Diamond and Graphite 2019 O Level Pure Chemistry · Paper 1 · Q6

Question

Which property is common to both diamond and graphite?
  1. AEach atom in the structure forms four covalent bonds.
  2. BThey act as a lubricant when finely divided.
  3. CThey are electrical insulators.
  4. DThey react with oxygen to produce carbon dioxide.
Correct answer: D

Video Solution

Explanation

Answer: D (both react with oxygen to produce carbon dioxide). Diamond and graphite are both allotropes of carbon, so both burn in oxygen to give carbon dioxide, CO₂. That shared chemistry is the property common to both.

A is wrong: only diamond has each carbon atom forming four covalent bonds. In graphite each carbon forms only three covalent bonds, leaving one delocalised electron per atom between the layers.

B is wrong: only graphite acts as a lubricant, because its layers slide over one another. Diamond is extremely hard.

C is wrong: only diamond is an electrical insulator. Graphite conducts electricity because of its delocalised electrons. So the structural and physical properties differ, but the combustion chemistry is identical, making D the property they truly share.

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