Why are diamonds so much harder than graphite if they both only consist of carbon atoms? (2.6)
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Answer: Diamond and graphite consist only of carbon atoms, but their physical properties differ. Carbon atoms in diamond are closely spaced and share strong covalent bonds in all directions; this configuration produces the hardest mineral on Earth. The smooth crystal faces defining the external form of diamond coincide with planes of carbon atoms in the crystal structure. In graphite, however, carbon atoms are more widely spaced than in diamond and are strongly bonded only in two dimensions. The covalently bonded carbon sheets are weakly held together by van der Waals forces. The weakly linked sheets readily separate in graphite, accounting for its softness and its tendency to cleave readily into thin, scaly plates.
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Describe at least two important ways that the ocean interacts with large-scale atmospheric wind systems.
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Which of the following rocks belong to Chemical Sedimentary Rocks?
a. Travertine limestone b. Dolostone c. Flint d. Evaporites e. All of the above
Which of the following energy sources is thought to drive the lateral motions of Earth's lithospheric plates?
A) swirling movements of the molten iron particles in the outer core B) heat transfer between the earth's interior and the surface of the earth C) gravitational attractive forces of the Sun and Moon D) electrical and magnetic fields localized in the inner core
A rock that behaves in a(n) ________ manner will bend under stress and does not return to its original shape.
A. plastic B. elastic C. rubber D. brittle E. tactile