Definition of Fullerenes

Fullerenes are a class of carbon allotropes with hollow, cage-like structures

Synthesis and Occurrence of Fullerenes

Fullerenes are typically synthesized in laboratories, but have also been detected in cosmic dust and meteorites

Composition and Structure of Fullerenes

Fullerenes are primarily composed of hexagonal carbon rings, but can also incorporate pentagons and heptagons, contributing to their diverse shapes

Discovery and Nobel Prize

Buckminsterfullerene, also known as C60 or the Buckyball, was discovered in 1985 by researchers who were later awarded the Nobel Prize in Chemistry

Molecular Structure and Stability

The unique arrangement of hexagons and pentagons in C60, with no two pentagons sharing an edge, provides the molecule with remarkable stability

Chemical and Physical Properties

C60 is resistant to high temperatures and pressures, insoluble in water, and has a melting point of 280°C, making it useful in various fields such as advanced materials, pollution control, and cosmetics

Definition and Characteristics

Carbon nanotubes are elongated, cylindrical structures composed of six-carbon rings, known for their exceptional strength, thermal conductivity, and electrical properties

Applications and Uses

Carbon nanotubes have been used in a variety of fields, including reinforcing composite materials, electronic devices, construction materials, and energy storage solutions

Discovery and Advancements

Carbon nanotubes were discovered in the early 1990s and have significantly advanced the field of materials science and technology, showcasing the potential of carbon-based nanostructures