Describe the structure and properties of graphite

Graphite is made from layers of carbon which contain many 6-membered carbon rings (hexagonal). Each layer is held together by each carbon being covalently bonded to 3 other carbon atoms and this leaves a delocalised electron to move freely through the structure. Between layers are weak intermolecular forces which allows sliding of the layers on top of each other and so graphite is very slippery and used as a lubricant. The delocalisation of the electron in the layers also means that it is a good conductor of electricity as the free electrons can carry a charge.

Answered by Lucy S. Chemistry tutor

3419 Views

See similar Chemistry GCSE tutors

Related Chemistry GCSE answers

All answers ▸

A solution of sugar has a concentration of 3 g/dm3. What is the mass of sugar in 0.5 dm3 of solution?


Does reactivity increase or decrease as you go down group 7?


Explain the difference between covalent and ionic bonding.


Describe and explain how changes in the earth atmosphere, from the Precambrian Era (where the earth as occupied by volcanoes), have changed to form the surface of the Earth today and its atmosphere.


We're here to help

contact us iconContact usWhatsapp logoMessage us on Whatsapptelephone icon+44 (0) 203 773 6020
Facebook logoInstagram logoLinkedIn logo
Cookie Preferences