(a) Describe briefly allotropism in p - block elements with specific reference to carbon.

Explanation

Allotropism in p - block elements :
(i) Some elements exist in more than one crystalline or molecular forms in the same physical state.
(ii) Carbon exists as diamond and graphite.
The phenomenon is known as allotropism.
(iii) Other important allotropes of carbon are graphite, fullerenes, carbon nanotubes.