Explain why graphite conducts electricity

Carbon is the atom that makes up graphite. Carbon is in group 4 of the periodic table, this means that Carbon has 4 electrons in its outer shell. In graphite each Carbon atom forms three covalent bonds, this means that one electron per carbon atom is delocalised. The delocalised electrons can therefore carry the charge throughout the structure, meaning graphite can conduct electricity.

FD
Answered by Fiona D. Chemistry tutor

8797 Views

See similar Chemistry GCSE tutors

Related Chemistry GCSE answers

All answers ▸

Why can metals conduct electricty?


For the reaction (hydrochloric acid + magnesium -> magnesium chloride + hydrogen) what would happen to the rate of reaction if the solid magnesium was cut into smaller pieces? Explain the change (4)


Increaseing the pressure of a system will have what effect on the equilibrium of this reversable reaction 3H2 + N2 <---> 2NH3


Define a hydrocarbon and explain the difference between alkenes and alkanes.


We're here to help

contact us iconContact ustelephone icon+44 (0) 203 773 6020
Facebook logoInstagram logoLinkedIn logo

MyTutor is part of the IXL family of brands:

© 2026 by IXL Learning