Graphene And Fullereness Flashcards
Define an allotrope
Different structural forms of the same element in the same physical state
What is graphene ?
A single layer of graphite
Meaning it’s only one atom thick
What are the properties of graphene ?
Good conductor of electricity- has delocalsied electrons which can move carrying an electrical charge
Extremely storm
High melting and boiling point: lots of strong covalent bonds which require lots of energy in the form of heat to overcome
What is graphene useful for ?
Electronics
What are fullerenes ?
Carbon hollow shapes in hexagonal rings of carbon atoms
They can also have rings of five or seven carbon atoms
What was the first fullerene molecule to be discovered ?
Buckminsterfullerene (C60)
How many carbon atoms does buckminsterfullerene contain ?
60 carbon atoms arranged in a hollow sphere
How are the carbon atoms arranged within the buckminsterfullerene ?
Carbon rings with either 6 carbon atoms or five carbon atoms
What do fullerenes such as buckminsterfullerene have usage ?
Deliver drugs such as pharmaceuticals into the body due to the hollow shape
Lubricants in machines where they reduce friction in moving parts
Used as catalyst to speed up chemical reactions
What are carbon nanotubes ?
Fullerenes shaped into long cylinders with a very small diameter
What ratio do scientists say carbon nanotubes have ?
Very high length to diameter ratio
How are carbon nanotubes arranged ?
Rings of 6 carbon atoms
What are the properties of carbon nanotubes ?
High tensile strength- lots of force applied before it brakes
Delicalised electrons- good electoral conductors and heat
What are carbon nanotubes being used for ?
To reinforce materials such as high end tennis rackets
