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.

Answered by Fiona D. Chemistry tutor

3460 Views

See similar Chemistry GCSE tutors

Related Chemistry GCSE answers

All answers ▸

What happens to the reactivity going down group 7?


Explain, with reference to the outer electrons, the type of bonding in sodium chloride and whether it would be a good conductor of electricity.


How do enzymes affect the rate of reaction?


Magnesium oxide contains magnesium ions (Mg2+) and oxide ions (O2–). Describe what happens when magnesium atoms react with oxygen atoms to produce magnesium oxide.


We're here to help

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

© MyTutorWeb Ltd 2013–2024

Terms & Conditions|Privacy Policy