Question

Why is Graphite better than oil?

Answer 1

Hint: Graphite is soft and slick because the carbon atoms are connected in layers that are held together by a weak Van Der waal force rather than the stronger tetrahedron arrangement.

Complete Step by Step Solution:
Graphite has a layered structure, as may be seen by looking at it. These layers can easily glide over one another because the covalent bonds between them are weaker. As a result of the layers sliding over one another so easily, it acts as a lubricant.

Graphite has a few benefits. First, it doesn't typically dry out or gather dust. Second, it tends to remain in place longer than dripping oil. Oil performs all three. Because of this, graphite works well as a lock lubricant. They do not clog and the key does not emerge all greasy.
The carbon atoms are closely linked together in sheets. Under friction stress, graphite exhibits lesser shearing strength because the links between the sheets are weak. It is one of the materials used in traditional and main solid lubrication and can also be utilised as a solid lubricant.

Additional information: Carbon exists in its crystalline form as graphite. Graphene is layered in layers to make it. Under normal circumstances, graphite is the most stable form of carbon and it is found in nature. The use of graphite as a lubricating grease ingredient can significantly increase the resistance to compression and wear, making it ideal for lubricating heavy-duty machinery and railway wheel tracks.

Note: When graphite is between two objects, the ability for the plates of graphite to slide easily across each other, lowering the coefficient of friction between the two objects, provides “lubrication”.