Diamond is the hardest substance known while graphite is one of the softest. Both are made only of carbon atoms. What is the most likely reason why this is true?


A. Both are bonded ionically.


B. Both are bonded covalently.


C. The carbon atoms are arranged differently in diamond than in graphite.


D. The carbon atoms in diamond are bonded to each other but in graphite there are no bonds.

CAN SOMEONE HELP MEE, PLEASEEE.. C:

C is the correct answer

thank you so much... it was the right answer C:

The most likely reason why diamond is the hardest substance known while graphite is one of the softest is because the carbon atoms are arranged differently in diamond than in graphite. This is the correct answer, option C.

In diamond, each carbon atom is covalently bonded to four neighboring carbon atoms, forming a three-dimensional crystal lattice structure. This lattice structure gives diamond its extreme hardness because the carbon-carbon bonds are very strong and tightly packed together.

On the other hand, in graphite, each carbon atom is covalently bonded to three neighboring carbon atoms, forming layers of hexagonal rings. These layers are held together by weak Van der Waals forces, allowing them to slide past each other easily. This arrangement gives graphite its soft and slippery properties.

Options A, B, and D are incorrect. Both diamond and graphite are bonded covalently, not ionically or with no bonds.

B. Both are bonded covalently.