Chapter 9: Problem 1
State whether the following statements are true or false. Fullerene molecules are synthesized by subliming coal using laser radiation.
Short Answer
Expert verified
Answer: False
Step by step solution
01
Understanding Fullerenes
Fullerenes are a class of carbon allotropes, which means they are made up of carbon atoms only. They have a unique structure consisting of carbon atoms bonded together in rings, forming spheres, tubes, or other shapes. They have various applications, such as in nanotechnology, materials science, and electronics.
02
Researching Fullerene Synthesis Methods
Look up various methods for the synthesis of fullerene molecules, including the one mentioned in the statement (subliming coal using laser radiation). Some common methods of fullerene synthesis include the arc discharge method, the laser vaporization of graphite, and chemical vapor deposition.
03
Evaluating the Statement
Based on the research, we know that fullerenes are typically synthesized from graphite sources rather than coal. The laser vaporization method is a legitimate technique, but it uses graphite as the starting material, not coal. Therefore, the statement about fullerenes being synthesized by subliming coal using laser radiation is incorrect.
04
Final Answer
The statement "Fullerene molecules are synthesized by subliming coal using laser radiation" is false.
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Key Concepts
These are the key concepts you need to understand to accurately answer the question.
Carbon Allotropes
Carbon allotropes are different structural forms of the same element, carbon, distinguished by the arrangement of carbon atoms. These structures result in materials with distinct properties.
Carbon is versatile, forming multiple allotropes due to its ability to make stable covalent bonds with other carbon atoms. Each allotrope has unique physical characteristics that arise from differences in atomic arrangement.
Some of the most common carbon allotropes include:
They have wide-ranging applications especially due to their stability and electrical properties.
Carbon is versatile, forming multiple allotropes due to its ability to make stable covalent bonds with other carbon atoms. Each allotrope has unique physical characteristics that arise from differences in atomic arrangement.
Some of the most common carbon allotropes include:
- Graphite: Layers of carbon atoms bonded in hexagonal patterns, commonly used in pencils and lubricants.
- Diamond: Each carbon atom forms four strong covalent bonds, making it extremely hard and often used in cutting tools and jewelry.
- Fullerenes: A group of carbon allotropes consisting of hollow spheres (like buckyballs), tubes (such as carbon nanotubes), or other shapes.
- Graphene: A single layer of carbon atoms arranged in a two-dimensional honeycomb lattice.
They have wide-ranging applications especially due to their stability and electrical properties.
Laser Vaporization Method
The laser vaporization method is a significant technique used in the synthesis of fullerenes and other nanostructures. This method involves the use of powerful laser beams to vaporize a carbon source, like graphite.
When a laser is applied to a graphite rod, the intense heat causes the carbon atoms to vaporize. Vaporized carbon atoms then collide and cool rapidly, bonding together to form fullerene molecules.
This technique stands out for its efficiency in producing large quantities of fullerenes. It must be noted, however, that the method uses graphite rather than coal.
Some key points about the laser vaporization method include:
When a laser is applied to a graphite rod, the intense heat causes the carbon atoms to vaporize. Vaporized carbon atoms then collide and cool rapidly, bonding together to form fullerene molecules.
This technique stands out for its efficiency in producing large quantities of fullerenes. It must be noted, however, that the method uses graphite rather than coal.
Some key points about the laser vaporization method include:
- Produces high yields of fullerenes.
- Utilizes a controlled environment to optimize the formation of carbon structures.
- Often requires additional equipment to capture and purify the formed fullerenes.
Nanotechnology Applications
Nanotechnology involves manipulating materials at the nanoscale, where unique phenomena enable innovative applications.
Fullerenes, owing to their unique properties, are a major subject of interest in nanotechnology. Their distinct structure allows them to perform roles not possible with bulk materials.
Specific applications of fullerenes in nanotechnology include:
These applications highlight why fullerenes are a focal point in materials science and engineering.
Fullerenes, owing to their unique properties, are a major subject of interest in nanotechnology. Their distinct structure allows them to perform roles not possible with bulk materials.
Specific applications of fullerenes in nanotechnology include:
- Medicinal uses, like drug delivery systems where fullerenes act as carriers for therapeutic agents.
- Incorporation in solar cells to enhance efficiency by improving electron transport.
- Used in creating novel composite materials that exhibit superior mechanical properties.
- Electrical components, as fullerenes are excellent conductors due to their molecular structure.
These applications highlight why fullerenes are a focal point in materials science and engineering.