Graphite
Graphite
Graphite is an allotrope of Carbon. Graphite has layered
structure. Layers are held by van der Waals forces and distance between two
layers is 340 pm. Each layer is composed of planar hexagonal rings of carbon
atoms. C-C bond length within the layer is 141.5 pm. Each carbon atom is
hexagonal ring undergoes sp2 hybridization and makes three
sigma bonds with three neighboring carbon atoms. Fourth electron forms a n
bond. The electrons are delocalized over the whole sheet. Electrons are mobile
and, therefore, graphite conducts electricity along the sheet. Graphite cleaves
easily between the layers and, therefore, it is very soft and slippery.
Uses
For its soft and slippery character, graphite is used in
machines running at high temperature, where oil cannot be used as a lubricant.
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