Graphite consists of layers of `C` atoms. Within the layers, covalent bonds hold the `C` atoms in six-membered rings. The `C-C` bond length in graphite is………pm.

Options

A. `141`
B. `132`
C. `120`
D. `154`

Answer

A

Explanation

The `C - C` bonds in graphite are much shorter than those in diamond `(154 p m)` but very similar to the `140 p m` bonds in benzene `(C_(6)H_(6))`. The short interatomic distance in graphite is the consequence of multiple bonding between `C` atoms whithin layers. Like benzene, graphite has a delocalized `pi` electron system throughout the plane of the `C` rings resulting from the overlap of the `2p_(z)` atomic orbitals at right angles to the plane of the rings. This arrangement results in a net `1(1)/(3)` bonds between each pair of `C` atoms.