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Diamond and Graphite Are Both Pure Carbon
Despite their vastly different properties, both diamond and graphite are made entirely of carbon atoms arranged in different crystal structures.
About this fact
Diamond and graphite represent a perfect example of how atomic arrangement affects material properties. Both are pure carbon, but in diamond, each carbon atom bonds to four others in a strong 3D tetrahedral structure, making it extremely hard. In graphite, carbon atoms form flat hexagonal sheets that slide easily over each other, making it soft and slippery. This is why diamond is used for cutting tools while graphite is used in pencils and as a lubricant. The transformation between these forms requires extreme pressure and temperature.