(b) Describe the structure of graphite with the help of a labelled diagram.

Solution:

Solution:

(a) Graphite is a carbon allotrope that is a soft, greyish black, and opaque carbon-based material.

(b)

Carbon atoms are arranged in layers or sheets to form a graphite crystal. Each carbon atom in a graphite sheet forms flat hexagonal rings by forming strong covalent connections with the other three carbon atoms. Weak Van der Waals forces hold the different layers of carbon atoms in graphite together. Graphite is a relatively soft material due to its sheet-like structure.