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.

LS
Answered by Lucy S. Chemistry tutor

5677 Views

See similar Chemistry GCSE tutors

Related Chemistry GCSE answers

All answers ▸

How does covalent bonding work?


titration calculation: 35cm3 of Hydrochloric Acid reacts with 27.5cm3, 0.3mol/dm3 NaOH. What is the Concentration of the Hydrochloric Acid?


How does hot water in lakes make fish die


Explain why chloride and bromide are in the same group in the period table. Also describe the electronic structures of both.


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:

© 2025 by IXL Learning