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A6 One atom, many structures

Diamond, graphite, nanotube and fullerene have the same basic chemical nature but their crystalline arrangements of carbon differ greatly. This gives the materials certain physical properties with undeniable industrial applications. Graphite has an atomic structure that consists of layers of hexagons easily separated from each other (application: pencil lead). Diamond has a structure made up of tetrahedrons and its atoms are connected by powerful bonds that make it the strongest of materials (application: cutting tools). Nanotubes are elastic and resistant; they are used in the manufacture of composites.