Need help from an expert?
The world’s top online tutoring provider trusted by students, parents, and schools globally.
Fullerenes are a type of carbon allotrope that come in different shapes and sizes.
One example of a fullerene is Buckminsterfullerene, also known as C60. This molecule is shaped like a soccer ball, with 60 carbon atoms arranged in a pattern of hexagons and pentagons. It was first discovered in 1985 by Harold Kroto, Robert Curl, and Richard Smalley, who were awarded the Nobel Prize in Chemistry in 1996 for their discovery.
Another type of fullerene is Carbon Nanotubes, which are long, thin tubes made of carbon atoms arranged in a cylindrical pattern. They can be single-walled or multi-walled, depending on the number of layers of carbon atoms. Carbon nanotubes have unique properties that make them useful in a variety of applications, including electronics, energy storage, and drug delivery.
Graphene is another type of carbon allotrope that can be considered a type of fullerene. It is a single layer of carbon atoms arranged in a hexagonal pattern, similar to the hexagons in Buckminsterfullerene. Graphene is incredibly strong, lightweight, and conductive, making it useful in a variety of applications, including electronics, energy storage, and water filtration.
In conclusion, fullerenes are a fascinating group of carbon allotropes that come in a variety of shapes and sizes. From the soccer ball-shaped Buckminsterfullerene to the long, thin Carbon Nanotubes and the flat, hexagonal Graphene, each type of fullerene has unique properties that make it useful in a variety of applications.
Study and Practice for Free
Trusted by 100,000+ Students Worldwide
Achieve Top Grades in your Exams with our Free Resources.
Practice Questions, Study Notes, and Past Exam Papers for all Subjects!
The world’s top online tutoring provider trusted by students, parents, and schools globally.