Question

Graphite consists of planes of carbon atoms. Between atoms in planes there are only weak forces. What kind of elastic properties do you expect from Graphite ?

Answer 1

Graphite doesn't have a 3 dimensional structure. It has a hexagonal type of structure that is in one plane. The 2 carbon atoms have very weak interatomic force between them. Since one Carbon atom is perpendicular to another carbon atoms and existence of weak inter atomic forces ,shearing strain is produced in large amount . That means by a little application of tangential stress a greater amount of shearing strain is produced

Since Modulus of rigidity is inversely proportional to shearing strain, the graphite will possess less modulus of rigidity

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