# Describe the structure and bonding in diamond, and explain why diamond does not conduct electricity.

> Cambridge International IGCSE Chemistry (0620) — 2.6 Giant covalent structures · Describe and Explain · 4 marks

## Mark scheme (4 marks)

1. Each carbon atom is bonded to four other carbon atoms (tetrahedral arrangement / four covalent bonds)
2. The atoms are held together by strong covalent bonds throughout the entire lattice / giant covalent (lattice) structure
3. There are no free / delocalised electrons in diamond
4. Therefore there are no charge carriers to carry / transfer electrical current

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