Question

Explain why graphite can be conductive and is a molecular solid based upon its structure and hybridization.

Answer 1

A molecular solid is a solid consisting of discrete molecules. The cohesive forces that bind the molecules together are van der Waals forces, dipole-dipole interactions, quadrupole interactions, π-π interactions, hydrogen bonding, halogen bonding, London dispersion forces, and in some molecular solids, coulombic interactions.

Graphite although only made up of carbon atoms, is the only non-metal that can conduct electricity. This is because only 3 of the available valence electrons form covalent bonds leaving 1 spare electron, which then becomes delocalised. This delocalised electron is no longer associated with one particular carbon atom and it is able to move freely between the carbon layers of graphite and conduct electricity.