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'''Graphite''' is a soft [[allotrope]] of [[carbon]], noted for being one of few conductive non-metals. This is caused by its structure; 'sheets' of carbon linked by weak bonds, with every one in two having a 'spare' electron. Its sheet-like structure means that it is often mixed with clay to form the 'lead' in [[pencil|pencils]].

'''Graphite''' is a soft [[allotrope]] of [[carbon]], noted for being one of few conductive non-metals. This is caused by its structure; 'sheets' of carbon linked by weak bonds, with every one in two having a 'spare' electron. Its sheet-like structure means that it is often mixed with clay to form the 'lead' in [[pencil|pencils]]. This has been used as a safer alternative to the [[lead]] mineral which had been used until this time in the 1600's.<ref>Hiskey, Daven. "Why Pencil "Lead" Is Called "Lead"" Today I Found Out. 24 Nov. 2010. Web. 1 Dec. 2015.</ref>

The graphite used in pencils is a natural substance and varies in its characteristics; deposits that have the characteristics that make good pencils are rare. In 1847 a major discovery of high-quality graphite was made in [[Siberia]], and the region became famous. The association of the best pencils with [[Oriental]] graphite explains both the traditional [[yellow]] color and the name of the Mongol pencil company.

The graphite used in pencils is a natural substance and varies in its characteristics; deposits that have the characteristics that make good pencils are rare. In 1847 a major discovery of high-quality graphite was made in [[Siberia]], and the region became famous. The association of the best pencils with [[Oriental]] graphite explains both the traditional [[yellow]] color and the name of the Mongol pencil company.

[[category:geology]]

[[category:geology]]