# Explain why diamond has a very high melting point and does not conduct electricity.

> Edexcel GCSE Chemistry (1CH0) — 1.6 Covalent bonding · Explain · 4 marks

> Diamond is a form of carbon used in cutting tools and jewellery. It is one of the hardest known substances and has an extremely high melting point.

## Mark scheme (4 marks)

1. Diamond has a giant covalent structure
2. Each carbon atom forms four strong covalent bonds to other carbon atoms
3. A very large amount of energy is needed to break these many strong covalent bonds, hence the high melting point
4. Diamond does not conduct electricity because it has no free electrons (or ions) to carry charge

## Key terms

- [melting point](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/glossary/melting-point)

## Related

- [Revision notes for Edexcel GCSE Chemistry (1CH0)](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/learn)
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