Nanochemistry Flashcards
What are allotropes
Different forms of the same element in the same physical state
The atoms are arranged in a different molecular structure
What state are the allotropes of carbon in
Solids
Describe properties of diamond
Carbon atoms bonded to four other carbon atoms
Rigid structure with strong covalent bonds
Won’t conduct electricity, no free electrons
Insoluble in water
Colourless, transparent and lustrous
Very hard with high melting point (to break bonds), used in cutting tools
Describe properties of graphite
Carbon atoms bonded to three other carbon atoms
Layered structure, weak intermolecular forces so slides in layers
Insoluble in water
Free electrons, electrical conductor
high melting point(makes electrodes, electrolysis)
Slippery, black, lustrous and opaque used in lubricants and pencils
How many carbon atoms are in buckminster fullerene and what shape are they arranged in
60 carbon atoms are arranged in a sphere
How are nanotubes made
Made by joining fullerenes together
How are nanotubes used to trap substances inside them
They can deliver drugs that disrupt an illness such as HIV
How can nanotubes be used for catalysts
By attaching catalyst material to a nanotubea, a massive surface area can be achived making the catalyst very efficient
Name three main allotropes of carbon
Diamond
Graphite
Buckminster fullerene
What are properties of nanotubes
What are they used for
Conduct electricity and are very strong
Used to: reinforce tennis rackets
Make connectors and semiconductors (computors) due to electrical properties
Develop new, efficient industrial catalysts
