Why can graphite conduct electricity?

Graphite is a mineral whose molecular structure is made up of carbon atoms. 

A carbon atom can bind up to 4 other atoms around it (it has 4 electrons in its outer-most shell which it can share with other atoms to form bonds).

However in graphite each carbon atom only bonds to 3 others around it- this means there is an electron spare which becomes 'delocalised'.

This means that it is donated to form a common pool of electrons which can flow through the molecule carrying charge and so conducting electricity. 

AS
Answered by Aneesh S. Chemistry tutor

23656 Views

See similar Chemistry GCSE tutors

Related Chemistry GCSE answers

All answers ▸

How do covalent bonds work?


Why does the reactivity of the Group 1 elements increase as you go down the group?


Describe what you would see when a piece of potassium is placed on water. Why does this happen?


What are the differences between intermolecular and intramolecular forces?


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 2013–2025

Terms & Conditions|Privacy Policy
Cookie Preferences