Answer the following question:

Why is graphite used for making lead pencils?

• It is used for making lead pencils by mixing with clay or finely powdered sand, as it leaves a mark on the paper.
• We know graphite has layered structure layers held by van der Waal forces.
• Graphite helps in cleaning very easily between its layers therefore, it is very soft and slippery.
• For this reason, it is used in pencils and as lubricants in machines running at high temperatures.
• For the above reasons therefore graphite is used for making lead pencils.