Carbon is capable of forming many allotropes (structurally different forms of the same element) due to its valency. ... Other unusual forms of carbon exist at very high temperatures or extreme pressures.

Why does carbon Show allotropy?

Carbon shows allotropy because it exists in different forms of carbon. Though these allotropes of carbon have a different crystal structure and different physical properties, their chemical properties are the same and show similar chemical properties. Both diamond and graphite have symbol C.

Why do allotropes exist?

Enantiotropic allotropes have several forms, each of which is stable under different sets of conditions. It is possible to convert one form into another form by change these conditions (such as temperature and pressure). The elements carbon, oxygen, sulfur, tin and phosphorus all have allotropic forms.