# Explain why graphite can conduct electricity but diamond cannot.

> AQA GCSE Chemistry (8462) — 4.2.2 How bonding and structure are related to the properties of substances · Explain · 4 marks

## Mark scheme (4 marks)

1. Graphite has delocalised (free) electrons
2. These delocalised electrons can move through the structure to carry charge / conduct electricity
3. In diamond, all four outer electrons of each carbon atom are used to form covalent bonds
4. Therefore diamond has no charged particles free to move, so it cannot conduct electricity

## Key terms

- [graphite](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/glossary/graphite)
- [diamond](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/glossary/diamond)

## Related

- [Revision notes for AQA GCSE Chemistry (8462)](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/learn)
- [How to answer "Explain" questions](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/tools/command-word-cheatsheet)
- [Practice this with AI marking (free)](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/start)

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Source: [GradeNine](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/q/explain-why-graphite-can-conduct-electricity-ef977d5b) · Published by Druglandscape Ltd.