Question

Thermodynamically the most stable form of carbon is (1) Diamond (2) Graphite (3) Fullerenes (4) Coal (5) Charcoal

Short answer

Graphite

Step-by-step solution

Title - Understanding the Options

The problem asks to identify the most stable form of carbon thermodynamically. The given options are diamond (1), graphite (2), fullerenes (3), coal (4), and charcoal (5).

- Definition of Thermodynamic Stability

Thermodynamic stability refers to how much energy a substance has in its natural state. Structures that are lower in energy are more stable.

- Compare the Forms of Carbon

Graphite is known to be more thermodynamically stable than diamond, fullerenes, coal, and charcoal due to its lower energy state.

- Conclude the Most Stable Form

Among the given options, graphite is the form that is most stable thermodynamically.

Key concepts

Graphite

Graphite is one of the allotropes of carbon, known for its excellent electrical conductivity and high thermal stability. It consists of layers of carbon atoms arranged in a hexagonal lattice. These layers can slide over each other easily, which makes graphite a good lubricant.
Compared to other forms of carbon like diamond, graphite has a lower energy state. This lower energy state means that it doesn't require as much energy to maintain its structure, making it thermodynamically stable.

Carbon Allotropes

Carbon is a versatile element that can exist in several different forms, known as allotropes. The most well-known allotropes of carbon are:

• Graphite
• Diamond
• Fullerenes
• Coal
• Charcoal

Each allotrope has a unique arrangement of carbon atoms and distinct physical and chemical properties. For instance, diamond has a tetrahedral structure where each carbon atom is bonded to four others, making it extremely hard. In contrast, graphite's layered structure makes it soft and slippery.
The stability of these allotropes varies, with graphite being the most stable due to its lower energy state.

Energy States

The concept of energy states is crucial in understanding thermodynamic stability. In simple terms, an energy state refers to the amount of energy a substance has. Lower energy states indicate more stability because the substance is nearer to its natural, lowest-energy condition.
Take graphite, for example. It lies in a lower energy state compared to diamond and fullerenes. This means that among the carbon allotropes, graphite requires the least amount of energy to stay intact, making it the most thermodynamically stable.
Understanding energy states helps in explaining why certain materials are more stable than others and is fundamental to the study of thermodynamics.