Graphene & Fullerenes

• What are allotropes?

  Different structural forms of the same element in the same physical state
• What is the structure of graphene made up of?

  Multiple repeating hexagons
• How are the carbon atoms in graphene bonded?

  Each carbon is bonded to three other carbons
• Why is graphene strong?

  Because of its structure of multiple repeating hexagons
• What property allows graphene to conduct electricity?

  The delocalized pool of electrons
• How can graphene be obtained?

  From the ground in the form of graphite
• How can fullerenes be used in medicine?

  To deliver drugs to certain areas of the body
• What is the first fullerene made?

  Buckminsterfullerene
• What is the formula for Buckminsterfullerene?

  C$_{60}$
• What is nanotechnology?

  Technology that uses tiny structures like fullerenes
• What are the structural differences between graphene and fullerenes?

  • Graphene: flat sheets of carbon in hexagonal patterns
  • Fullerenes: hollow shapes like spheres or tubes
• What is the significance of the surface area to volume ratio in fullerenes?

  • Allows for efficient chemical reactions
  • Enhances drug delivery capabilities
• How do the properties of graphene and fullerenes contribute to their applications?

  • Graphene: strong, conductive, used in electronics
  • Fullerenes: hollow, large surface area, used in drug delivery and catalysis