Chapter 3.7 Giant covalent structures

Question 1

What does graphite contain?

Answer 1

Graphite contains giant layers of covalently bonded carbon atoms.

Question 2

Why can the layers in graphite slide over each other?

Answer 2

This is because there are no covalent bonds between the layers of graphite which is why graphite is soft.

Question 3

Why can graphite conduct electricity and thermal energy?

Answer 3

This is because of the delocalised electrons that can move along its layers.

Question 4

Name three properties of a giant covalent structure.

Answer 4

• They have very high melting and boiling points
• They are insoluble in water
• Apart from graphite, they are hard and do not conduct electricity.