Question

Assertion : Among the carbon allotropes, diamond is an insulator, whereas, graphite is a good conductor of electricity.

Reason : Hybridization of carbon in diamond and graphite are sp³ and sp², respectively.

Options

• Both assertion and reason are correct, but the reason is not the correct explanation for the assertion

• Both assertion and reason are correct, and the reason is the correct explanation for the assertion

• Both assertion and reason are incorrect

• Assertion is incorrect statement, but the reason is correct

Answer 1

Both assertion and reason are correct, and the reason is the correct explanation for the assertion

Explanation:

Each C-atom in a diamond is covalently connected to four other C-atoms to form a tetrahedral unit, resulting in sp³-hybridisation. As a result, each C-atom generates four sigma bonds with its neighbours. Each C-atom in a diamond uses its four unpaired electrons to build bonds. These bonding electrons have a specific location. As a result, diamond is a poor electrical conductor.

Each C-atom in graphite is covalently connected to three other C-atoms, resulting in trigonal geometry. Graphite has sp²-hybridized C-atoms. In the graphite structure, three of the four valence electrons of each C-atom are employed in bond formation, while the fourth electron is free to travel. As a result, graphite is a good electrical conductor.