Use app×
Join Bloom Tuition
One on One Online Tuition
JEE MAIN 2026 Crash Course
NEET 2026 Crash Course
CLASS 12 FOUNDATION COURSE
CLASS 10 FOUNDATION COURSE
CLASS 9 FOUNDATION COURSE
CLASS 8 FOUNDATION COURSE
0 votes
282 views
in Chemistry by (40.1k points)
closed by

Explain why graphite is soft and can be used as a lubricant.

1 Answer

0 votes
by (40.6k points)
selected by
 
Best answer

Graphite has layer structure. Each layer is a planar sheet, composed of hexagonal rings of carbon atoms, with 3 electrons of each atom involved in single bonds with three adjacent atoms of hexagonal ring. The extra electron makes a very weak bond with the adjacent layer. The inter-layer distance can be easily changed. This makes graphite very soft.

Graphite is used as a lubricant due to its slippery nature.

The layers in graphite can slide over each other because the forces between them are weak

Due to its loosely intact carbon atoms or free electrons, they can move around easily from one place to another, making graphite a good conductor of electricity.

Welcome to Sarthaks eConnect: A unique platform where students can interact with teachers/experts/students to get solutions to their queries. Students (upto class 10+2) preparing for All Government Exams, CBSE Board Exam, ICSE Board Exam, State Board Exam, JEE (Mains+Advance) and NEET can ask questions from any subject and get quick answers by subject teachers/ experts/mentors/students.

Categories

...