Why do graphite and diamond appear to be different substances if they are composed of the same atom?

Diamond and graphite are allotropes of carbon.

Explanation:

Diamond has a close packed crystal structure which is responsible for its extreme hardness. In it, each carbon atom is sp³ hybridised and bonded to four other carbon atoms in a tetrahedral arrangement. Diamond has a hardness of 10 on mohs scale with a cubic crystal form.

Note: allotropes of an element have different molecular structure.

Graphite on the other hand is made up of layers of hexagonal structure that are weakly bonded by van-der-waals forces. This layered arrangement explains its softness/slippery feeling and hence it is used as a lubricant. In each layer, each carbon atom is sp² hybridised and bonded to three other carbon atoms in a trigonal planar arrangement.

The presence of electrons in the layers accounts for its ability to conduct electricity.

explanation:

let the different atoms be x and y. each with four protons and same mass will be represented as follows.

mass number is number of protons + number of neutrons.

            and  

since, it is given that one has a negative charge while the other is neutral. therefore, there will be increase in number of protons and the atom will be represented as follows.

according to periodic table, mass number of beryllium is 9 and it has atomic number 4 so, the atoms will be and .  

the protons and neutrons will be located inside the nucleus whereas the electrons will be revolving around the nucleus.