Question

Why is graphite used as an electrode

Answer 1

Because it is very inert ough only in aqueous salts electrolysis and it conducts electric current very well also it has a very high melting point, in molten salts electrolysis the gases evolved corrodes the graphite rods therefore they are not so inert. For example electrolysis of water the graphite electrode remains intact whereas in electrolysis for extraction of aluminium the graphite anode is degraded by the oxygen formed.

Answer 2

Graphite is utilized in making electrodes due to following properties:

i) Good conductor of Electricity

ii) Keeps the surface look always clean and rough

iii) It is inexpensive; It saves expenses

iv) Insoluble in water, Acids and Bases

v) Have High density

Graphite: Graphite is a crystalline form of Carbon found in free state in nature. It is mainly found in New Zealand, America, India and Russia. It is mainly used in making the leads of pencils by mixing it with the clay to make it harder.

Structure of Graphite: Each carbon atom in Graphite is bonded with it's neighboring 3 carbon atoms in such a way that, Hexagonal layered structure is formed. Graphite is made up of various sheets and layers of carbon.

Properties of Graphite:

i) Inside the each layer of Graphite, The free electrons movies continuously. Due to which, Graphite is a good conductor of electricity.

ii) Graphite is found in nature as free state is black, Slippery and Brittle.

iii) Density of Graphite is .9 to 2.3g/cm^3

iv) Graphite is mostly used in making all leads and extract of writing pencils.

v) Like diamond, Graphite also doesn't dissolve in any solvent.

Uses of Graphite:

i)    Graphite is used in writing pencils and Lead of Lead pencils.

ii)   Graphite is used in making of Lubricants and Light bulbs.

iii)  Graphite is used for making Carbon electrodes.

iv)  Graphite is uses in Arc lamps to make the light more brighter and effective.

v)   Graphite is used in paints and polish to give a better look.