Question

Define allotropy. Name the various allotropes of carbon.

Answer 1

We need to understand the concept of allotropy and discuss using the allotropes of carbon. The understanding of the existence of an element (such as carbon) in more than one physical form is important to solve the question given. It is a concept in inorganic chemistry that studies the different physical forms of an element. Carbon is the best example to understand this concept.

Complete step by step answer:
Allotropy: A topic in inorganic chemistry defines the existence of an element in more than one different form whose properties also differs from one another. This is known as allotropy and the property is known as allotropism. The phenomenon by which an element exists in more than one form but differs in the arrangements of atoms in crystalline solids and has the same physical state or composition is called allotropy and the element is called the allotrope of the original element.
We have to remember that allotropes of carbon: Carbon is an element which exhibits allotropism and the physical properties and characteristics of its allotropes vary accordingly. Diamond and graphite are the two most common allotropes of carbon. Amorphous carbon and fullerene are also allotropes of carbon.
We need to know that the diamond and Graphite consist of carbon atoms bound together by strong covalent bonds with different arrangements. The arrangement of atoms in a diamond makes a perfect tetrahedron throughout the crystal of the diamond. Graphite has carbon arrangements forming hexagonal rings thus making it look like sheets and are widely used in lead pencils.
Amorphous carbon is a free and reactive carbon that does not possess any crystalline structure.
Fullerene consists of carbon atoms connected by single and double bonds such that it forms a closed or partially closed mesh, with fused rings of five to seven atoms.

Note: It must be noted that different allotropic forms are triggered by different forces such as pressure, light, and temperature. The element carbon itself is considered to be unique due to its tendency to form extensive networks of covalent bonds not only with other elements but also with itself. Also, Diamond is said to be considered as the purest form of carbon because the composition of the diamond is homogeneous and consistent throughout the crystalline structure.