Question

The correct match is: (a) \(\mathrm{C}_{60}\) - Buckminster fullerence (b) Borazole- \(\mathrm{B}_{3} \mathrm{~N}_{3} \mathrm{H}_{6}\) (c) \(\mathrm{Na}_{2} \mathrm{~B}_{4} \mathrm{O}_{7} \cdot 4 \mathrm{H}_{2} \mathrm{O}\) - Kernite (d) All of these

Short answer

All matches are correct; choose option (d).

Step-by-step solution

Identifying the matches

Look at the given options and identify which molecular formulas correspond with the given names. 1. Option (a) states that \( \mathrm{C}_{60} \) is Buckminster fullerene, which is correct. Buckminster Fullerene is a spherical molecule consisting of 60 carbon atoms arranged in a structure similar to a soccer ball.2. Option (b) states that Borazole is \( \mathrm{B}_{3} \mathrm{~N}_{3} \mathrm{H}_{6} \), which is also correct. Borazole, also known as Borazine, is a compound with a six-membered ring of alternating boron and nitrogen atoms, similar to the structure of benzene.3. Option (c) states that \( \mathrm{Na}_{2} \mathrm{~B}_{4} \mathrm{O}_{7} \cdot 4 \mathrm{H}_{2} \mathrm{O} \) is Kernite, which is indeed correct. Kernite is a mineral that is an ore of boron and can be described by the given hydrated borate formula.

Assessing the cumulative option

Option (d) states that all of the matches listed are correct. Since each individual pair from options (a), (b), and (c) is correct, the cumulative option (d) is verified as correct as well.

Conclusion

Since all three compound-name pairs in options (a), (b), and (c) are correctly matched, option (d) which claims all are correct, is indeed the ultimate correct choice.

Key concepts

Molecular Formulas

In inorganic chemistry, the understanding of molecular formulas is fundamental. A molecular formula represents the number and type of atoms in a molecule, providing insights into its basic composition. For example, the molecular formula for water is \( \mathrm{H}_2\mathrm{O} \), which shows that each water molecule contains two hydrogen atoms and one oxygen atom. These formulas differ from empirical formulas as they provide specific quantifications of each element's atoms present in the molecule.

To comprehend how molecular formulas work, consider the compound benzene, \( \mathrm{C}_6\mathrm{H}_6 \). Its formula indicates that every molecule of benzene has six carbon and six hydrogen atoms. Understanding molecular formulas helps in visualizing the structure and properties of a compound, which is essential for predicting reactions in chemistry.

When studying compounds like those containing boron, recognizing their molecular formulas allows chemists to anticipate properties and reactiveness, thus guiding research and practical applications.

Boron Compounds

Boron compounds are intriguing and diverse, often displaying unique structures and properties compared to other elements. Boron, being less metallic, forms compounds that feature a variety of bonds and geometries. These compounds are extensively used in different industries due to their highly specialized properties.

Some notable boron compounds include:

• Boron trifluoride (\( \mathrm{BF}_3 \)) which acts as a valuable catalyst in organic reactions.
• Borax (\( \mathrm{Na}_2\mathrm{B}_4\mathrm{O}_7 \cdot 10 \mathrm{H}_2\mathrm{O} \)), often utilized in household cleaning products and glass manufacturing.

Boron typically forms covalent bonds, leading to compounds like borazine (\( \mathrm{B}_3 \mathrm{~N}_3 \mathrm{H}_6 \)), which displays aromatic qualities similar to benzene.

The study of these compounds is essential, as they often serve as starting materials or intermediates in the synthesis of other chemicals, showcasing the versatility and significance of boron in chemistry.

Buckminsterfullerene

Buckminsterfullerene, or \( \mathrm{C}_{60} \), is an extraordinary molecular structure in the realm of carbon compounds. Also known as "buckyballs," these molecules are composed of 60 carbon atoms arranged in a pattern that resembles a soccer ball, with a combination of pentagons and hexagons.

The discovery of buckminsterfullerene was groundbreaking because it unveiled a new form of carbon allotrope beyond graphite and diamond. Its spherical shape allows for intriguing applications in nanotechnology, materials science, and even medicine.

Some potential uses include:

• Drug delivery systems, where \( \mathrm{C}_{60} \) can encapsulate molecules.
• Conductive films in electronics due to their unique electron configuration.

Understanding buckminsterfullerene advances our knowledge of molecular structures and interatomic forces, making it a fascinating subject of study in inorganic chemistry.

Kernite

Kernite, represented by the formula \( \mathrm{Na}_2 \mathrm{~B}_4 \mathrm{O}_7 \cdot 4 \mathrm{H}_2 \mathrm{O} \), is a significant mineral ore of boron. It is primarily mined in regions like California, providing a substantial source of boron for industrial applications.

This mineral embodies the hydrated form of sodium borate, prevalent in processes like glass and ceramic production. Kernite's importance lies in its function as a precursor for producing boric acid, required in a variety of cleaning and cosmetic products.

Key applications of kernite include:

• Manufacturing fiberglass and borosilicate glass.
• Using boron derivatives in agriculture as micronutrients to enhance soil quality.

Studying kernite and its applications boosts understanding of mineral properties and the economic importance of boron extraction, linking chemistry with practical supply chains.

Borazole

Borazole, or \( \mathrm{B}_3 \mathrm{~N}_3 \mathrm{H}_6 \), is often referred to as "inorganic benzene" due to its similar ring structure. Comprising alternating boron and nitrogen atoms, borazole shares aromatic properties with benzene, like stability and planarity.

This compound's aromatic nature is attributed to the delocalization of electrons across its ring structure, much like the electron resonance seen in benzene. Despite its similarities with benzene, borazole exhibits distinct chemical behavior attributed to the presence of boron and nitrogen.

Applications of borazole include:

• Uses in high-temperature coatings due to its stability.
• Potential as a precursor for producing novel polymeric materials.

Studying borazole enables chemists to explore alternative materials with aromatic characteristics, contributing to the development of advanced chemical technologies.