Question

Which of the following types of crystal is diamond?

• A. Ionic crystal
• B. Covalent crystal
• C. Molecular crystal
• D. Metallic crystal

Hint:

Diamond is a covalent crystal with each carbon atom bonded to four other carbon atoms, creating a very strong, rigid structure.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is B

Step 1: Understanding diamond structure.
Diamond has a crystal structure where each carbon atom is covalently bonded to four other carbon atoms in a tetrahedral arrangement, forming a very strong, three-dimensional network. This makes diamond a covalent crystal. Step 2: Analysis of options.
(A) Ionic crystal: Ionic crystals are held together by ionic bonds (electrostatic attraction between oppositely charged ions). This is not the case for diamond.
(B) Covalent crystal: Correct — Diamond is a covalent crystal, where atoms are held together by strong covalent bonds.
(C) Molecular crystal: Molecular crystals consist of molecules held together by intermolecular forces, which is not the case with diamond.
(D) Metallic crystal: Metallic crystals are held together by metallic bonds, which is not the case for diamond.
Step 3: Conclusion.
The correct answer is (B) because diamond is a covalent crystal where atoms are bonded by strong covalent bonds.