Question

Which metallic property does graphite exhibit despite being a non-metal?

Hint:

Diamond, another allotrope of carbon, is an insulator, showing how properties can differ among allotropes.

Answer 1

Step 1: Nature of Graphite
Graphite is an allotrope of carbon. Chemically it is a non-metal, but it shows one important property of metals.
Step 2: Structure of Graphite
Graphite has a layered structure. Each carbon atom is covalently bonded to three other carbon atoms forming hexagonal sheets. The fourth electron of each carbon atom is free and delocalised.
Step 3: Metallic Property Exhibited
Due to the presence of free electrons, graphite is a good conductor of electricity, which is a property normally associated with metals.
Step 4: Applications of Conductivity
Graphite is used as an electrode in electrolysis.
It is used in batteries and arc lamps.
It is also used in making brushes for electric motors.
Final Answer:
Although graphite is a non-metal, it exhibits the metallic property of electrical conductivity.