The Diamonds of Winter
Tom Kuntzleman | Thu, 01/09/2025 - 09:44
Take a walk and explore the chemical winter wonderland of snowflakes...and diamonds!
Take a walk and explore the chemical winter wonderland of snowflakes...and diamonds!
With a Master's degree in geology, I have a deep and abiding love for rocks and minerals. The great thing about geology is, it's all about chemistry! I want to share one of my favorite links between geology and chemistry that my students think is pretty cool too.
You are likely aware that diamonds are converted - albeit slowly - to graphite under normal conditions. Thus, diamonds don't last forever, in contrast to the popular advertising slogan. However, did you know that you can use chemistry to prove that diamonds are not forever? It's simpler than you think...