Graphite Crystal Lattice Structure Model

Click on graphite models to see all model versions including a glow in the dark version, graphene sheets & nanotobes.

The bonds lengths of this model are 20 & 50 mm which are a close approximation of 0.142 nm C-C sp2 trigonal hybridized covalent bond lengths within the graphene layer & the 0.335 nm distance between layers. The model does not show any explicit double bonds. It can also be reconfigured in the form of a carbon nanotube or a single graphene sheet.

The common understanding of graphite has graphene layers able to move due to the weak van der Waals attraction between them. However, TEM images have shown that graphene layers are often joined at the edges which can restrict this motion. See: The closed-edge structure of graphite and the effect of electrostatic charging.