Diamonds, graphite and charcoal are all forms of which element?
Lead
Iron
Carbon
Nitrogen
Take a look at a diamond, and then look at the lead tip at the end of a pencil. Surprisingly, they are both formed from the same basic element-carbon. The difference lies in how the carbon atoms are arranged. In a diamond, the carbon atoms are tightly bonded in a crystal lattice, giving it its renowned hardness. Graphite, on the other hand, consists of layers of carbon atoms that can slide past one another, making it much softer. Under high pressure and temperature, carbon can transform into a diamond. And the next time you see charcoal at a barbecue, remember that it, too, is mostly carbon.
Correct Answer: Carbon