Answer: A single layer of graphite with exceptional electrical, mechanical, and thermal properties.
- A A single layer of graphite with exceptional electrical, mechanical, and thermal properties
- B A fully three-dimensional covalent network of carbon identical to diamond's structure
- C A disordered amorphous carbon form lacking any long-range crystalline structure
- D A closed, curved carbon sheet resembling a hollow soccer-ball-shaped sphere
Correct answer: A. A single layer of graphite with exceptional electrical, mechanical, and thermal properties
Explanation: Graphene is a single-atom-thick honeycomb lattice of sp<sup>2</sup> carbon; it is the strongest material and has the highest electron mobility known.
Diamond's rigid 3D tetrahedral network makes it the hardest natural material, while graphite's flat hexagonal sheets are held together only by weak forces, letting them slide past each other (used as a lubricant and in pencils).
Concept context
Covers the Boron family (Group 13: B, Al) and the Carbon family (Group 14: C, Si, Ge, Sn, Pb). Key topics include Lewis acid behaviour of BF₃, borax bead test, silicates, silicones, allotropes of carbon, and trends in properties down the group.