Question

How does graphite act as a lubricant ?

Answer 1

In graphite, each carbon atom is bonded with 3 other carbon atoms to form a hexagonal structure that joins together by weak van der Waals forces between the layers of the carbon atoms in its crystal. Due to this weak force, the layers of carbon atoms in graphite can slide over one another, making graphite slippery in nature and capable of acting as a lubricant.