Diamonds
Diamonds are known as one of the most beautiful and valuable substances in the world. They are symbols of affluence and have been sought after for thousands of years. But what makes these rocks so special? The answer lies in the science behind this gemstone.
At its most basic level, a diamond is composed primarily of carbon atoms arranged in a crystalline lattice structure. The entire diamond is typically composed of billions of these microscopic carbon atoms that have been carbonized even further by extreme temperatures and pressures. Because the atoms are heavily compressed and tightly bound, it is one of the hardest materials in the world, measuring up to 10 on the Mohs hardness scale.
In chemistry, the formation of diamond is referred to as its allotropy, because carbon is able to transform into several different structures, and diamond is one of the two most stable forms of allotrope. The other form of carbon allotrope is graphite. Graphite is still composed of carbon atoms, but its structure is much different than diamond. Instead of being bound tightly together, graphite atoms are loosely stacked and arranged in sheets. This is why graphite is often used to form the ‘lead’ in pencils – its structure allows it to be easily sliced and broken apart.
Diamonds are also known to be incredibly durable, making them the perfect choice for industrial applications. Diamonds are frequently used in cutting tools such as saw blades and drill bits, where their hardness serves as a major strength in cutting through tough materials. Diamond film is also being researched for its potential use in protective coatings, as it can withstand damage from wear and tear.
The chemical properties of diamonds also make them highly sought-after for decorative uses. Since diamonds are made purely of carbon, this element is essentially colorless. As the light reflects off of a diamond’s unique structure, reflecting it in all directions, it can create a variety of colors depending on the angle of light exposure. These colors can range from yellow, pink, and green to the more typical white color of a diamond.
Although diamonds are highly valuable, they are not indestructible. While these stones are incredibly hard, they are also brittle and can be susceptible to scratches and chips if mishandled. Additionally, diamonds can be burned in a laboratory setting. This is usually done by heating the substance with a strong type of laser, creating a tiny explosion and ultimately destroying the diamond.
Diamonds are one of the most sought-after substances on the planet, both for their beauty and the robustness of their chemical properties. Knowing the science behind this gemstone can help us better understand why it has become so popular, and appreciate the many uses we have for it.
