Diamonds

[ed2288]

As you may or may not know, diamonds are a macromolecule containing carbon atoms linked to other carbon atoms. However, at the edge of the molecule the carbons bind with hydrogen (otherwise the molecule would never stop!). My question is: what happens if you cut open a diamond in a vacuum? because there would be no extra hydrogen atoms for the new edges

[Clanad]

Except... the hydrogen-terminated structures only occur in CVD diamond films and coatings, which are typically, 2 to 5 microns in thickness, not naturally occurring diamonds. H-atoms terminate the 'dangling' carbon bonds that are seen in CVD production and not experienced in covalent structured natural diamonds.

[Clanad]

Not at all eddie... have a really good New Year!

[Hamish]

If you cleave any crystal in a high vac system you will get a truly clean surface - ie no dangly bits.

[elginsmarble]

True point, Hamish. Diamond is not an element at all but an alkane with a large C:H ratio.