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Chapter 13: Problem 7

What are intercalation compounds of graphite? Discuss their formation stages.

Short Answer

Expert verified
Intercalation compounds of graphite are materials that form when foreign atoms or molecules insert themselves between the layers of graphite. They are formed in stages that involve preparing the intercalating substance, inserting it into graphite either spontaneously or with the help of heat, pressure, or chemical means, and finally the arrangement of the intercalating substance between the graphite layers, which alters the original electronic structure of the graphite.

Step by step solution

01

Description of Intercalation Compounds of Graphite

Intercation compounds of graphite are unique substances where foreign atoms or molecules are inserted into the graphite crystals. Intercalation into graphite involves inserting an atom or molecule in between the layers of a graphite crystal. This process is unique to graphite and other layered structures because of their naturally open structure.
02

Formation Stages I: Intercalate Preparation

The first stage of intercalation is the preparation of the intercalating substance. This could be a molecule or atom. For example, in the case of graphite, it could be a lithium atom in the creation of a lithium-ion battery.
03

Formation Stages II: Insertion

The second stage is the actual intercalation or insertion. The intercalating substance is made to penetrate the graphite layer at high temperature. The penetration can be either spontaneous if the intercalate has a small particles size, or it can be helped by heat, pressure, or chemical means.
04

Formation Stages III: Formation of the Intercalation Compounds

After insertion, the intercalating molecules or atoms arrange themselves between layers of the graphite substrate. The original electronic structure of the graphite is altered and thus an intercalation compound of graphite is formed.

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