Graphite
ExploreMineral
Graphite
Graphite is a soft mineral that is used to make pencils! It is black and can leave marks on paper.
Appearance
The Graphite is typically a dark steel-gray to dull black mineral. It often exhibits a metallic sheen, giving it a somewhat shiny appearance, but can also look earthy and matte. Unlike many hard minerals, it feels soft and greasy to the touch, easily leaving a mark.
KingdomAnimalia
Category
MineralRarity
Common
Danger
1/5 · Very low
Snaps
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Interesting facts
Despite being pure carbon, just like diamonds, graphite is super soft!
Every time you write with a pencil, you're using tiny flakes of graphite!
It's so soft, it feels greasy or slippery when you touch it!
Some scientists are even trying to grow giant graphite crystals in space!
Special abilities
Ability
Smooth Glide
Graphite has a unique layered atomic structure that makes it incredibly slippery, perfect for reducing friction.
Ability
Electric Flow
Graphite has free electrons between its carbon layers, allowing it to conduct electricity very well, unlike most non-metals.
Ability
Heat Shield
Graphite has an extremely high melting point and can withstand extreme temperatures, making it useful in hot places.
Measurements & details
- Color Range
- steel-gray, black
- Hardness
- 1.5
- Luster
- metallic to dull
- Specific Gravity
- 2.23
- Crystal System
- hexagonal
Traits
Also known as
No aliases listed yet.
Collections
Safety
Danger
1/5 · Very low
Handle gently and avoid sharp edges. Ask an adult before picking anything up.
Frequently Asked Questions
What colors can Graphite be?
steel-gray, black
How hard is Graphite?
1.5
What kind of luster does Graphite have?
metallic to dull
What is Graphite's specific gravity?
2.23
What crystal system does Graphite belong to?
hexagonal
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