Question

Graphite conducts electricity because of :

• A. Weak van der Waal?? forces between layers
• B. Covalent bonding between carbon atoms of layers
• C. Delocalized electrons in each layer
• D. $sp^2$ hybridisation of carbon atoms in a layer

Answer 1

Answer: (C)

Delocalized electrons in each layer

Answer 2

Graphite is composed of flat twodimensional sheets of carbon atoms. Each sheet is a hexagonal net of C atoms. The $3 \,e^-$ of C form s bond & 4th electron is a $\pi$ e- and is delocalized over the whole sheet & is thus mobile. Conduction of electricity is due to these delocalized electrons within each layer. Conduction does not occur from one sheet to another.