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Chapter 12: Problem 112

(a) What are the \(\mathrm{C}-\mathrm{C}-\mathrm{C}\) bond angles in diamond? (b) What are they in graphite?

Short Answer

Expert verified
In diamond, carbon atoms are arranged in a tetrahedral structure, resulting in C-C-C bond angles of approximately 109.471°. In graphite, carbon atoms are arranged in a hexagonal structure, resulting in C-C-C bond angles of 120°.

Step by step solution

01

1: Understanding the structure of diamond

Diamond consists of carbon atoms bonded to four other carbon atoms in a tetrahedral arrangement. In other words, each carbon atom forms single covalent bonds with four other carbon atoms nearby, ultimately creating a regular and repeating lattice.
02

2: Finding the bond angles in diamond

Since the carbon atoms in the diamond structure form tetrahedral arrangements in which all four bonding pairs are at equal distances from each other, the bond angles are determined by the tetrahedral geometry. The C-C-C bond angle in a tetrahedral carbon structure can be found using the formula: \(angle = cos^{-1}(-\frac{1}{3})\) angle = 109.471 ° (approximately) So, the C-C-C bond angles in diamond are approximately 109.471°.
03

3: Understanding the structure of graphite

Graphite is composed of layers of carbon atoms bonded together in hexagonal structures. These layers are weakly connected with each other by van der Waals forces, making graphite a good lubricant and conductor of electricity. Each carbon atom in the hexagonal structure is bonded to three other carbon atoms, forming a planar structure.
04

4: Finding bond angles in graphite

Since the carbon atoms in graphite's hexagonal structure form planar arrangements, the bond angles can be found based on the hexagonal geometry (angles in a regular hexagon). In this case, the C-C-C bond angle can be found using the following formula: \(angle = \frac{360 °}{\text{number of sides in hexagon}}\) angle = \( \frac{360 °}{6} \) angle = 120 ° So, the C-C-C bond angles in graphite are equal to 120°.

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