Multiple choice

Which of the following is the hardest element?

  1. Graphite

  2. Bromine

  3. Iodine

  4. Diamond
Reveal answer Fill a bubble to check yourself
D Correct answer
Explanation

Diamond is the hardest known natural material, rating 10 on the Mohs hardness scale. Its extreme hardness comes from the three-dimensional network of strong covalent bonds between carbon atoms. Graphite (another carbon allotrope) is soft, while Bromine and Iodine are soft non-metals. Diamond's hardness makes it valuable for cutting tools and industrial abrasives.

Keep practicing — related questions