Question

Which one of the following properties is NOT true for graphite ?

• A. Hybridisation of each carbon atom is $s{p}^3$
• B. Hybridisation of each carbon atom is $s{p}^2$
• C. Electrons are delocalized over the whole sheet of atom
• D. Each layer is composed of hexagonal rings.

Answer 1

Answer: (A)

Hybridisation of each carbon atom is $s{p}^3$

Graphite has carbon atoms arranged in sheets of hexagon and has $s{p}^2$ hybridisation. Carbon uses only 3 electrons in bonding and hence 1 electron is spare. This free electron of each carbon atom in graphite is responsible for conduction of electricity.