what is the most stable form of carbon at standard state
The standard enthalpy of formation of a pure element is in its reference form its standard enthalpy formation is zero. Carbon naturally exists as graphite and diamond. The enthalpy difference between graphite and diamond is too large for both to have a standard enthalpy of formation of zero. To determine which form is zero, the more stable form of carbon is chosen. This is also the form with the lowest enthalpy, so graphite has a standard enthalpy of formation equal to zero. Table 1 provides sample values of standard enthalpies of formation of various compounds.