16: Bucky balls and nanotubes

Question 1

What are nanotubes?

Answer 1

• They are created when fullerene molecules are joined together.
• They resemble a layer of graphite rolled into a tube.
• Strongest and stiffest materials discovered.
• Have electrical properties and be used to conduct electricity

Question 2

When was the Buckminster fullerene (bucky ball) discovered?

Answer 2

1985

Question 3

How is a bucky ball structured?

Answer 3

Each molecule has 60 carbon atoms, forming a hollow sphere large enough to contain atoms or other molecules

Question 4

Name three allotropes of carbon?

Answer 4

Fullerenes, diamond and graphite

Question 5

How do fullerenes have the potential to be used as drug delivery systems?

Answer 5

–Scientists can ‘cage’ radioactive metal atoms and drug molecules inside them.
They can be coated with chemicals that cause them to gather next to cancer cells after being injected into the body.
-Delivered to its target without damaging normal cells.

Question 6

What can nanotubes be used for?

Answer 6

To reinforce graphite in tennis racquets - they are strong

Question 7

How can nanotubes be used as catalysts?

Answer 7

• Best when they are stacked side by side
• Huge surface area compared to volume
• Allows high collision frequency
• Properties can be modified by attracting other substances, such as nitrogen or iron, to their surface.