The mineral graphite is one of the allotropes of carbon. It is used in pencils. Unlike diamond, which is another carbon allotrope, graphite is an electrical conductor and a semi metal.

 

 

 

Graphite conducts electricity along the planes of carbon atoms, but does not conduct in a direction at right angles to the plane.


Graphite is used in arc lamp electrodes. It is the most stable form of carbon under standard conditions. Therefore used in thermo chemistry as the standard state for defining the heat of formation of carbon compounds. Graphite may be considered the highest grade of coal, how ever its not normally used as fuel because it is hard to ignite.