Diamond crystal structure, illustration
Illustration depicting the crystal structure of diamond, a carbon allotrope. The bronze spheres represent carbon atoms that are covalently bonded to four neighbouring atoms in a tetrahedral pattern. This structure is incredibly robust, making diamond the hardest naturally occurring substance on earth. Additionally, diamond is highly resistant to chemical reactions and can withstand the strongest acids without being affected., by RUSSELL KIGHTLEY/SCIENCE PHOTO LIBRARY
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