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A mineral is a naturally occurring, homogeneous solid with a specific chemical composition and a highly ordered atomic structure. Minerals (or crystals) have an internal arrangement of atoms that is both ordered and symmetrical, forming a three-dimensional network known as a **crystal lattice**. **Graphite** Graphite possesses a layered, planar structure in which carbon atoms are arranged in a hexagonal (honeycomb) lattice within each layer. The carbon atoms in each layer are separated by 0.142 nm, and the distance between adjacent layers is 0.335 nm. Within the planes, the atoms are covalently bonded, creating strong in-plane bonds. However, bonding between the layers occurs via weak van der Waals forces, enabling the layers to slide past one another easily or to be separated.
