Which concept explains how carbon can form both graphite and diamond with different structures?

• A. Carbon forms graphite and diamond by combining with oxygen in different ratios.
• B. Carbon undergoes different types of hybridization: sp^2 in graphite and sp^3 in diamond.
• C. Graphite and diamond are formed due to the presence of impurities in carbon.
• D. Carbon atoms use only sp^3 hybridization in both graphite and diamond.

Answer: (B)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand that the question is about the concept explaining how carbon can form two different allotropes: graphite and diamond.
2. Recall that allotropes are different structural forms of the same element, where atoms are bonded in different ways, leading to different physical properties.
3. Recognize that the key difference between graphite and diamond lies in the type of hybridization of carbon atoms: in diamond, carbon atoms are sp^3 hybridized forming a tetrahedral 3D network, while in graphite, carbon atoms are sp^2 hybridized forming planar layers.
4. Note that the difference in hybridization leads to different bonding patterns and structures, which explains the distinct properties of graphite and diamond.
5. Conclude that the concept explaining the formation of graphite and diamond is the different types of hybridization (sp^2 in graphite and sp^3 in diamond), not differences in oxygen ratios or impurities.