Which allotropic of carbon is thermodynamically more stable ?

Options

A. Fullerence
B. Diamond
C. Graphite
D. Coke

Answer

To determine which allotropic form of carbon is thermodynamically more stable, we can analyze the different allotropes of carbon and their stability.

### Step-by-Step Solution:

1. **Identify the Allotropes of Carbon**:
The common allotropes of carbon include:
- Diamond
- Graphite
- Fullerene (Buckminster fullerene)
- Coke

2. **Understand Thermodynamic Stability**:
Thermodynamic stability refers to the stability of a substance in terms of its energy state. A more stable allotrope will have a lower energy state and will be less reactive.

3. **Analyze Each Allotrope**:
- **Diamond**:
- Structure: Tetrahedral arrangement of carbon atoms.
- Properties: Very hard, non-conductive, high melting point.
- Stability: While diamond is stable, it is not the most stable form under standard conditions.

- **Graphite**:
- Structure: Layered structure with carbon atoms arranged in hexagonal lattices.
- Properties: Soft, slippery, conducts electricity due to delocalized electrons.
- Stability: Graphite is thermodynamically the most stable allotrope of carbon at room temperature and pressure.

- **Fullerene (Buckminster fullerene)**:
- Structure: Spherical structure made of 60 carbon atoms (C60).
- Properties: Relatively stable but less stable than graphite.
- Stability: Not as stable as graphite under standard conditions.

- **Coke**:
- Structure: An impure form of carbon derived from coal.
- Properties: Used as a fuel and reducing agent in metallurgical processes.
- Stability: Less stable than graphite.

4. **Conclusion**:
Based on the analysis, graphite is the most thermodynamically stable allotrope of carbon. It has a lower energy state compared to diamond, fullerene, and coke.

### Final Answer:
Graphite is the thermodynamically most stable allotrope of carbon.

---