Graphite (Edexcel GCSE Chemistry): Revision Notes
📚 Revision Notes
2.3.2 Graphite
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Graphite is another form of carbon, but it's very different from diamond. In graphite, each carbon atom is bonded to three other carbon atoms in a hexagonal (six-sided) pattern.
Properties of Graphite:
- Conducts Electricity: Unlike diamond, graphite can conduct electricity. This is because each carbon atom in graphite has one free electron that can move around and carry an electric charge.
- High Melting and Boiling Points: Like diamond, graphite has strong covalent bonds, so it also has high melting and boiling points.
- Layers: Graphite is made of layers that can slide over each other easily because the forces between the layers are weak. This is why graphite is used in pencils—when you write, the layers slide off onto the paper.
