Which of the following properties is characteristic of graphite?

Graphite is a unique form of carbon with several distinct properties that make it stand out among other forms of carbon and materials in general.

One characteristic of graphite is its very high boiling point. This is due to the strong covalent bonds between the carbon atoms arranged in layers, which require significant energy to break.

Another important property of graphite is its softness and slippery texture. The layers in graphite can slide over one another easily because the bonds between the layers are relatively weak van der Waals forces. This quality allows graphite to be used as a lubricant and in pencil tips, where it leaves a mark by depositing flakes of graphite.

In addition, graphite is an excellent conductor of electricity. This property arises from the presence of free-moving electrons within its structure. The carbon atoms in graphite are bonded in a planar arrangement with one electron from each carbon being free to move, which allows the conduction of electricity along the planes.

Given that graphite exhibits all these properties—very high boiling point, softness and slipperiness, and electrical conductivity—the correct answer encompasses all of these characteristics.