Are You Curious About How Graphite in a Pencil Leaves a Mark on Paper?

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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on how graphite in a pencil leaves a mark on paper, primarily due to friction and the unique structure of graphite. When pressure is applied, the friction causes layers of carbon atoms to cleave and transfer onto the paper. Graphite consists of carbon atoms that form three bonds, allowing free electrons to move, which contributes to the marking process. The interaction between the pencil and paper is a result of both shear forces and the layered structure of graphite.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of graphite structure and bonding
  • Basic knowledge of friction and shear forces
  • Familiarity with carbon chemistry
  • Concept of material interaction with surfaces
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  • Research the properties of graphite and its bonding structure
  • Explore the physics of friction and shear in material science
  • Investigate the role of free electrons in conductive materials
  • Study the mechanics of writing instruments and their materials
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Students studying chemistry or physics, educators explaining material properties, and anyone interested in the mechanics of writing instruments.

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How does the graphite in a pencil leave a mark on a sheet of paper? Any ideas? My answer is due tomorrow, so a clue or answer would be great.

Thanks
 
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I would say that the friction is the main cause of the writing. When graphite is pushed down on paper, a force leaves marks on the paper, which would only happen with friction.
 
seve said:
How does the graphite in a pencil leave a mark on a sheet of paper? Any ideas? My answer is due tomorrow, so a clue or answer would be great.

Thanks

It is because of the structure of graphite. As graphite is made of Carbon they must bond together. The Carbons form 3 bonds, but carbon should form 4 with each otehr, therefore there is a free electron to move and be put on the paper. Also, as graphite is layers of carbon, some layers come off as well.

As a pencil is pulled along a piece of paper it leaves the graphite there.

Hope that helps.

The Bob (2004 ©)
 
Friction and shear cause cleaving between loosely bound sheets in the graphite lattice.
 

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