Which of the following allotrope of carbon is good conductor of electricity ?

The correct answer is Graphite.

Key Points

• Graphite is an allotrope of carbon with a layered structure, where carbon atoms are arranged in hexagonal sheets.
• It is a good conductor of electricity because it has delocalized electrons that move freely within its layers.
• The weak van der Waals forces between the layers allow electrons to flow, making graphite highly conductive.
• Graphite is widely used in applications like electrodes, batteries, and lubricants due to its electrical conductivity.
• Other allotropes of carbon, like diamond and coal, are poor conductors of electricity due to their different atomic structures.

Additional Information

• Allotropes of Carbon:
  • Carbon exists in several forms, including diamond, graphite, fullerenes, and coal.
  • Each allotrope has distinct physical and chemical properties due to differences in atomic arrangement.
• Structure of Graphite:
  • Graphite consists of sp2 hybridized carbon atoms arranged in hexagonal rings.
  • The layers are held together by weak van der Waals forces, enabling easy sliding and electrical conduction.
• Diamond vs Graphite:
  • Diamond, another allotrope of carbon, has a tetrahedral structure and is an electrical insulator.
  • Graphite conducts electricity due to the presence of free electrons, unlike diamond.
• Applications of Graphite:
  • Used in electrical applications such as batteries, electrodes, and brushes in electric motors.
  • Also utilized as a lubricant and in pencil leads.