What are the Carbon-Carbon single bond lengths in the crystalline networks of diamond and graphite, — p Block Elements Chemistry Question

💡 Solution & Explanation

In the tetrahedral network of diamond ($sp^3$ carbons), the C-C bond length is $1.54 \text{ \AA}$. In the planar hexagonal layers of graphite ($sp^2$ carbons), the partial double bond character shortens the C-C bond length to $1.415 \text{ \AA}$ ($141.5 \text{ pm}$).