Question detail
Explain why diamond has a very high melting point.
Try the question, check the answer, then read the explanation to understand the curriculum point.
At a glance
Question
Type
exam_style
Style
Topic
Structure and bonding of carbon
Question
Explain why diamond has a very high melting point.
Answer
Diamond has a very high melting point due to its giant covalent structure, where each carbon atom is bonded to four other carbon atoms through strong covalent bonds. This extensive network of strong bonds requires a significant amount of energy to break, resulting in a high melting point.
Explanation
This answer is strong because it directly addresses the question by linking the high melting point of diamond to its bonding and structure. It tests the student's understanding of the relationship between structure and properties in materials.
Common mistake
Misunderstanding Diamond's Melting Point
Students often state that diamond's high melting point is due to strong covalent bonds being broken during melting.
Students should explain that the high melting point of diamond is due to the strong covalent bonds throughout the giant covalent structure, and that during melting, it is the weak intermolecular forces that are not relevant in this context.
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