graphene and fullerenes

• What is the structure of graphene?

  Graphene is a single layer of graphite
• Why is graphene a good conductor of electricity?

  It has delocalized electrons that can move
• How might graphene be useful in electronics?

  Due to its ability to conduct electricity
• What gives graphene its high melting and boiling points?

  The large number of strong covalent bonds
• What are the properties of graphene?

  Good conductor, extremely strong, high melting point
• What are fullerene molecules based on?

  Carbon atoms
• What is the shape of fullerene molecules?

  They have hollow shapes
• What is the first fullerene molecule discovered?

  Buckminsterfullerene
• How many carbon atoms are in Buckminsterfullerene?

  60 carbon atoms
• What types of rings do fullerene molecules typically have?

  Hexagonal rings, and sometimes five or seven
• How can fullerenes be used in medicine?

  To deliver drugs into the body
• What is one use of fullerenes in machinery?

  As lubricants to reduce friction
• How do fullerenes act as catalysts?

  They speed up chemical reactions
• What are carbon nanotubes shaped like?

  Long cylinders
• What is the length to diameter ratio of carbon nanotubes?

  Very high
• What is a key property of carbon nanotubes?

  High tensile strength
• Why are carbon nanotubes good conductors of electricity?

  They have delocalized electrons
• What is another property of carbon nanotubes related to heat?

  They are good conductors of heat
• How might carbon nanotubes be used in sports equipment?

  To reinforce materials in tennis rackets