Explain why graphite is soft and can be used as a lubricant
Answers
A lubricant is a substance, usually organic, introduced to reduce friction between surfaces in mutual contact, which ultimately reduces the heat generated when the surfaces move. It may also have the function of transmitting forces, transporting foreign particles, or heating or cooling the surfaces. The property of reducing friction is known as lubricity.
In addition to industrial applications, lubricants are used for many other purposes. Other uses include cooking (oils and fats in use in frying pans, in baking to prevent food sticking), bioapplications on humans (e.g. lubricants for artificial joints), ultrasound examination, medical examination. It is mainly used to reduce friction and to contribute to a better and efficient functioning of a mechanism.
Explanation:
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Answer:
(1) In graphite, all the carbon atoms are sp2
- hybridised.
(2) Each carbon - atom is covalently bonded to three other sp2
hybridised carbon atoms forming σ
bonds, while fourth electron in 2pz
orbitals is used in the formation of π
bond . This results in the formation of hexagonal rings in two dimensions.
(3) In graphite, the layers consisting of hexagonal carbon network are held together by weak van der Waals forces. imparting softness.
(4) The layers in graphite can slide over another layer on applying a shearing force, hence it is used as a lubricant and in lead pencils.
Explanation:
Graphite has a two- dimensional sheet like structure and each carbon atom makes a use of sp2
hybridisation. The above layer structure of graphite is less compact than that of diamond. Further, since the bonding between the layers involving only van der Waal's forces is weak, these layers can slide over each other. This gives softness, greasiness and lubricating character of graphite.