Diamond is the hardest natural substance on Earth.
Why is diamond so strong?
Diamond is made up of a network of carbon atoms that each form four strong covalent bonds. The strong bonds take a lot of energy to break, so diamond has a high melting and boiling point.
This type of structure is called a giant covalent structure, as all the carbon atoms are bonded to each other by strong covalent bonds.
The strong covalent bonds also hold the atoms in a rigid lattice structure, which makes diamond very hard.
![giant covalent structure of diamond](https://www.science-sparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/01/Diamond-Structure-1024x1024.jpeg)
Uses of diamond
In cutting tools
Jewellery
Diamond does not conduct electricity as there are no free electrons.
![](https://www.science-sparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/01/Diamond-Mine-Kimberley-Australia-1024x647.jpeg)
![rough cut and cut diamond](https://www.science-sparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/01/rough-cut-diamond-1024x683.jpeg)
Learn more about diamonds over on Live Science.
![Images of rough and cut diamonds and the giant covalent structure of diamond](https://www.science-sparks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/01/What-is-the-hardest-substance-on-Earthh-683x1024.jpg)
Last Updated on January 8, 2024 by Emma Vanstone
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