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Q33 (NDA-I/2015) Science & Technology › Basic Science (Physics, Chemistry, Biology) › Basic chemical principles Answer Verified

Why is Graphite used in electrolytic cells ?

Result
Your answer: —  Â·  Correct: D
Explanation

Graphite is primarily used in electrolytic cells because it is a good conductor of electricity [2]. Unlike most non-metals, graphite's unique atomic structure consists of hexagonal layers where carbon atoms are sp² hybridized, leaving free electrons that can move between the layers [1]. This mobility allows graphite to conduct electricity efficiently, which is essential for the transmission of electrons in an electrode during electrolysis. While graphite is also chemically inert and resists heat, making it stable in reactive environments, its fundamental role in an electrolytic cell is to facilitate the flow of current. Its conductivity reduces internal resistance and energy consumption during the electrochemical process. Other properties like its layered structure and softness make it a good lubricant, but they are not the primary reason for its use as an electrode.

Sources

  1. [1] Science , class X (NCERT 2025 ed.) > Chapter 4: Carbon and its Compounds > Allotropes of carbon > p. 61
  2. [2] Science , class X (NCERT 2025 ed.) > Chapter 3: Metals and Non-metals > Table 3.1 > p. 40
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SIMILAR QUESTIONS

CDS-I · 2003 · Q94 Relevance score: 2.42

Assertion(A): Graphite is used as a lubricant in machine industry. Reason (R) : Graphite is soft and a good conductor of heat.

NDA-II · 2012 · Q76 Relevance score: 0.56

Consider the following statements: 1. Diamond is hard and graphite is soft. 2. Diamond is soft and graphite is hard. 3. Diamond is a bad conductor, but graphite is a good conductor. 4. Diamond is a good conductor, but graphite is a bad conductor. Which of the statement(s) given above is/are correct?

CDS-II · 2014 · Q7 Relevance score: -1.18

Carbon or Graphite rods are used in atomic reactors as moderators for sustained nuclear chain reaction through nuclear fission process. In this process

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Graphene is frequently in news recently. What is its importance? 1. It is a two-dimensional material and has good electrical conductivity. 2. It is one of the thinnest by strongest materials tested so far. 3. It is entirely made of silicon and has high optical transparency. 4. It can be used as ’conducting electrodes’ required for touch screens, LCDs and organic LEDs Which of the statements given above are correct ?