Chapter 23, Problem 1RCC

Diamond and graphite are minerals made of 100% carbon.

Are diamond and graphite the same mineral or different

minerals? Why?

To determine

Whether diamond and graphite are the same minerals or different, and the reason for the same.

Answer to Problem 1RCC

Solution:

Diamond and graphite are the two different minerals because their atoms are arranged differently.

Explanation of Solution

Diamond and graphite are polymorphs. The two minerals that contain the same elements in the same ratio but their atoms are arranged differently are called polymorphs. Diamond and graphite are pure carbon, but they are different minerals because their atoms are arranged differently. In diamond, the carbon atoms form a tight, three-dimensional network; whereas, the carbon atoms in graphite form sheets that slip past one another easily.