Assertion (A): Graphite is a good conductor of electricity. Reason (R): In graphite, each carbon atom uses three of its valence electrons to form covalent bonds, leaving one free delocalized electron.
A. A is true, but R is false
B. Both A and R are true, but R is not the correct explanation of A
C. A is false, but R is true
D. Both A and R are true, and R is the correct explanation of A
Answer: Option D
Solution (By JKSSB Mock Tests)
Graphite has a layered structure where each carbon is sp² hybridized, forming three sigma bonds with neighboring carbons, leaving one unhybridized p orbital electron delocalized over the entire layer. These mobile electrons allow electrical conduction parallel to layers. Diamond, with all four electrons in covalent bonds, is an insulator. Both the assertion and reason are correct, and the reason correctly explains the conductivity of graphite.
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