Graphene & Fullerenes

• What is the structure of graphene?

  Graphene is a single layer of graphite, only one atom thick.
• Why is graphene a good conductor of electricity?

  Graphene has delocalized electrons that can move and carry electrical charge.
• How might graphene be useful in electronics?

  Graphene's ability to conduct electricity makes it useful in electronic devices.
• What contributes to graphene's high melting and boiling points?

  Graphene has a large number of strong covalent bonds that require a lot of energy to break.
• What are the basic characteristics of fullerene molecules?

  Fullerenes have hollow shapes and usually consist of hexagonal rings of carbon atoms.
• What is the first fullerene molecule to be discovered?

  The first fullerene molecule discovered is called buckminsterfullerene.
• How are the carbon atoms arranged in buckminsterfullerene?

  Buckminsterfullerene contains 60 carbon atoms arranged in a hollow sphere.
• What are some uses of fullerenes?

  Fullerenes can deliver drugs, act as lubricants, and serve as catalysts.
• What are carbon nanotubes?

  Carbon nanotubes are fullerenes shaped into long cylinders with a small diameter.
• What is a notable property of carbon nanotubes related to their structure?

  Carbon nanotubes have a high length to diameter ratio.
• Why do carbon nanotubes have high tensile strength?

  Carbon nanotubes can withstand a great deal of stretching force before breaking.
• How do carbon nanotubes conduct electricity?

  Carbon nanotubes have delocalized electrons that allow them to conduct electricity.
• What is one potential use of carbon nanotubes in sports equipment?

  Carbon nanotubes can be used to reinforce materials in high-end tennis rackets.
• What are the properties of graphene and how do they relate to its structure?

  • Good conductor of electricity due to delocalized electrons
  • Extremely strong with high melting and boiling points due to strong covalent bonds
• What are the uses of fullerenes and carbon nanotubes?

  Fullerenes:

  • Drug delivery
  • Lubricants
  • Catalysts

  
  

  Carbon Nanotubes:

  • Reinforcement in materials
  • Conductors of electricity and heat