Question

One recently discovered allotrope of carbon \(\left(\mathrm{C}_{60}\right)\) is commonly known as (a) Fluorine (b) Fluorene (c) Freon (d) Fullerene

Short answer

The recently discovered allotrope of carbon C60 is commonly known as Fullerene.

Step-by-step solution

Understanding Allotropes

Allotropes are different structural forms of the same element, where atoms are bonded together in different ways. For example, carbon has several allotropes including diamond, graphite, and C60.

Identifying C60

The molecular formula C60 refers to a specific form of carbon that consists of 60 carbon atoms. These atoms are arranged in the form of a polyhedron, more specifically in the shape of a hollow sphere. This particular structure is also vividly referred to as a 'buckyball'.

Connecting C60 to its Common Name

C60, the spherical arrangement of 60 carbon atoms, is commonly known as 'Fullerene.' This name comes from the resemblance of its structure to the geodesic domes designed by architect Buckminster Fuller.

Final Selection

Based on connecting C60 to its common name Fullerene, option (d) matches the description and known scientific naming of the allotrope C60. Therefore, the correct match for C60 is 'Fullerene.'

Key concepts

Allotropes of Carbon

Carbon is an element with the unique capability of forming various structures, a property known as allotropy. Allotropes are different forms of the same element, where atoms are arranged differently in each form. This allows carbon to exist in multiple structures, each with distinct properties.
For carbon, these include:

• Diamond: Extremely hard and an excellent insulator, with a crystal lattice structure.
• Graphite: Known for its slippery feel and electrical conductivity, it consists of layers of carbon atoms arranged in hexagonal arrays.
• Fullerenes: These are molecular allotropes, such as C60, where carbon atoms are arranged in a spherical, tubular, or ellipsoidal shape.

Each allotrope has notable differences in hardness, conductivity, and appearance, illustrating how versatile carbon can be due to its ability to bond in various ways.

C60

The molecular formula C60 refers to a fascinating carbon structure known as "Buckminsterfullerene" or simply "buckyball." This form of carbon is a type of fullerene and is named for its configuration, which resembles a soccer ball made of 60 carbon atoms.
The atoms in C60 are arranged in a pattern of pentagons and hexagons similar to a truncated icosahedron. This design imparts an incredible symmetry and spherical shape to the molecule.
Some interesting facts about C60:

• It has unique properties, such as high resilience and the ability to act as a superconducting material under certain conditions.
• Because of its hollow structure, it has potential applications in drug delivery and nanotechnology.

C60 represents not only a breakthrough in understanding carbon, but also a step forward in functional nanomaterials.

Buckminster Fuller

The name "Buckminsterfullerene" honors R. Buckminster Fuller, a visionary American architect known for his pioneering work with geodesic domes. Fuller designed these domes using a principle of structural strength derived from a network of interconnected triangles.
Fullerenes, like C60, share structural features with geodesic domes, hence the homage to Fuller. His work emphasizes efficiency and sustainability—principles that resonate with the advancing field of materials science.
The influence of Fuller's designs is evident:

• He introduced the idea of using minimal geometric shapes to achieve maximum strength, which is mirrored in the stable forms of fullerenes.
• His innovative thinking continues to inspire researchers exploring the potential uses of fullerenes in contemporary engineering and architecture.

So, while he might not have worked directly with carbon allotropes, R. Buckminster Fuller’s legacy lives on in the name and structural inspiration of these captivating molecules.