Question

Buckminsterfullerene is (a) graphite (b) diamond (c) \(\mathrm{C}-60\) (d) quartz

Short answer

Buckminsterfullerene is (c) C-60.

Step-by-step solution

Understanding Buckminsterfullerene

Buckminsterfullerene is a specific type of molecule that is composed entirely of carbon atoms arranged in a spherical shape. It is a form of carbon distinct from other allotropes like graphite, diamond, and charcoal. The name 'fullerene' is derived from the resemblance of the molecular structure to the geodesic domes designed by architect Buckminster Fuller. The most common and abundant fullerene is C-60, which consists of 60 carbon atoms.

Identify the Chemical Structure

Among the provided options, the correct chemical structure for Buckminsterfullerene must be selected. The listed structures are all forms of carbon or silicon dioxide (in the case of quartz), so we need to choose the one that corresponds to a spherical assembly of carbon atoms.

Choose the Correct Answer

Since Buckminsterfullerene is recognized for its spherical shape and is made up of 60 carbon atoms, the correct answer is identified by the molecular formula C-60, which is option (c).

Key concepts

Fullerenes

Fullerenes are fascinating molecules composed entirely of carbon, known for their unique closed-cage structures that can be likened to hollow spheres, ellipsoids, or tubes. Named after architect Buckminster Fuller because of their resemblance to his geodesic domes, these molecules have garnered significant interest due to their distinct properties and potential applications. Buckminsterfullerene, or C-60, is the most well-known and studied fullerene, consisting of 60 carbon atoms arranged in a pattern of pentagons and hexagons resembling a soccer ball.

This structure imparts stability and high symmetry to the molecule, leading to interesting electronic, optical, and mechanical behaviors. Fullerenes have been explored for uses in various fields, including materials science, electronics, and even medicine. They are superb conductors of electricity and have the ability to act as antioxidants, capable of trapping free radicals.

Allotropes of Carbon

Carbon, an essential element of life, exhibits a remarkable ability to form a diverse array of structures called allotropes. These allotropes come about due to the different arrangements of carbon atoms and include well-known forms such as graphite, in which carbon atoms are arranged in layers, and diamond, where they are connected in a rigid, three-dimensional framework.

Each allotrope of carbon has distinct properties and uses. Graphite is a good electrical conductor and as such, is used in electrodes and batteries, while diamond is renowned for its hardness and thermal conductivity, making it valuable in both jewelry and cutting tools. Fullerenes add to this variety by offering unique characteristics, thus opening up new possibilities in nanotechnology and material science.

Molecular Structures

The molecular structure of a substance significantly determines its physical and chemical properties. The arrangement of atoms and the nature of their bonds define the reactivity, shape, and stability of the molecule. In carbon chemistry, the versatility of carbon allows for a myriad of molecular structures, from simple hydrocarbons to complex macromolecules.

For instance, fullerenes represent a type of molecular geometry known as a truncated icosahedron, which is a polyhedron with 12 pentagon and 20 hexagon faces. Understanding the molecular structure is crucial in fields like pharmacology and materials science, as the structure dictates how a molecule will interact with others, thus influencing its functionality.

Carbon Chemistry

Carbon chemistry, or organic chemistry, is the study of compounds that contain carbon. It is a diverse and rich field, as carbon's ability to form four stable bonds with other atoms and itself leads to an immense variety of compounds. The different forms of pure carbon—graphite, diamond, and fullerenes—are manifestations of its bonding versatility.

These bonds can be single, double, or triple, creating structures that can be straight chains, branched out, or even closed rings. Understanding carbon chemistry is vital for developing new materials, medicines, and technologies. Fullerene's discovery in 1985 was a groundbreaking event that further expanded the realm of carbon chemistry with its unique molecular properties that differ significantly from those of graphite and diamond.