Chemistry · Quantum mechanical approach to covalent bonding: Valence bond theory its important features, the concept of hybridization involving s, p and d orbitals, resonance

Which of the following are correct properties of diamond, and account for them i

Which of the following are correct properties of diamond, and account for them in terms of structure and bonding. This question has multiple correct options

  • A. Diamond is very hard, high melting solid.
  • B. It is an electrical insulator.
  • C. Diamond has a covalent network structure in which each \( C \) -atom uses \( s p^{3} \) -hybrid orbitals to forms a tetrahydral array of \( \sigma \) -bonds.
  • D. The interlocking, three-dimensional network of strong bonds makes diamond the hardest known substance with highest m.p for an element.

Step-by-step solution

Diamond's extreme hardness and high melting point are directly explained by its covalent network structure: each carbon atom forms four strong σ-bonds via sp³ hybridization, creating a rigid, interlocking three-dimensional lattice. This requires a vast amount of energy to break, resulting in diamond being the hardest known substance and having the highest melting point of any element.
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