Question

Of the following which one is not an Allotrope of Carbon?

• A. Diamond
• B. Graphite
• C. Fullerenes
• D. Naphthalene

Answer 1

Answer:

D. Naphthalene

Among the choices provided, Naphthalene is not an allotrope of carbon. It is a volatile organic compound made of carbon and hydrogen atoms ($\text{C}_{10}\text{H}_8$), commonly known as the main ingredient in traditional mothballs.

• Diamond: A crystalline allotrope where carbon atoms are bound in a rigid, three-dimensional tetrahedral lattice, making it the hardest natural substance.

• Graphite: A crystalline allotrope structured in flat, hexagonal layers that slide past each other, making it soft, slippery, and an excellent conductor of electricity.

• Fullerenes: A group of hollow, spherical or tubular carbon allotropes (like Buckminsterfullerene, $\text{C}_{60}$) shaped like soccer balls.

• Naphthalene: An aromatic hydrocarbon compound, not a pure elemental form of carbon.