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Explain graphite. |
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Answer» SOLUTION :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 in hexagonal ring UNDERGOES `sp^2` hybridisation and makes three sigma bonds with three neighbouring carbon atoms Fourth electron forms a `pi`-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. For this reason graphite is used as a dry lubricant in machines running at high TEMPERATURE, where oil cannot be used as a lubricant. 
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