An allotrope of carbon has a molecular mass of 720
a) Identify the allotrope
b)Give its three properties
c)Discuss its structure
Buckminster Fullerenes are pure carbon’s that are in the shape of spherical hollow cage like a soccer ball with 60 carbon atoms. They are called as ‘Buckyballs’ as their structure resembled a soccer ball. According to latest discoveries purest form of carbon is Fullerene. It is also the only pure form of molecular carbon utilized by our body.
Structure of Buckminster Fullerene - with 60 carbon atoms
Properties :
The C60 molecule is extremely stable, being able to withstand high temperatures and pressures. The exposed surface of the structure is able react with other species while maintaining the spherical geometry.
The hollow structure is also able to entrap other smaller species such as helium, while at the same time not reacting with the fullerene molecule. In fact the interior of most buckyballs is so spacious, they can encase any element from the periodic table.
Buckyballs do not bond to one another. They stick together via Van der Waals forces.
By doping fullerenes, they can be electrically insulating, conducting, semi-conducting or even superconducting.