What is graphite?
Q: What is graphite?
A: Graphite is an allotrope of carbon, similar to diamond. It is made up of layers of carbon atoms which can slide over each other very easily, making it soft and a dull gray in appearance. It can also conduct electricity well due to delocalized electrons between the layers.
Q: How is graphite formed?
A: Graphite can be formed from coal put under high heat and pressure, or it can be turned into diamond with enough heat and pressure. This is how synthetic diamonds are made.
Q: Where does most graphite come from?
A: Most graphite comes from mines in northeastern China, but it can also be found in Sri Lanka, Canada and the United States.
Q: What was graphite named after?
A: Graphite was named by Abraham Gottlob Werner in 1789 originating from the Greek language. It was also called Lead Black because it looks like the metal lead.
Q: What are some common uses for graphite?
A: Common uses for graphite include being used as a lubricant to make mechanical devices run smoother, as well as the "lead" in pencils (which also has clay). High-purity graphite is also used as a neutron moderator in some nuclear reactors such as RBMKs and AGRs.
Q: Can you turn graphite into diamond?
A: Yes, with enough heat and pressure you can turn graphite into diamond - this is how synthetic diamonds are made.
