Buckminsterfullerene Structure and Real-World Applications

Fullerene is a pure carbon molecule formed by at least 60 carbon atoms. It can be prepared by heating graphite in an electric arc with inert gas. Fullerene molecules can be C60 or C70, with cage-like structures where each carbon is SP2 hybridized. C60 consists of 12 pentagons and 20 hexagons, forming a spherical shape, and is also known as Buckminster fullerene due to its football-like shape.

What is the minimum number of carbon atoms required to form a fullerene molecule?

• 70

• 60

• 50

• 80

Which method is used to prepare fullerene molecules?

• Heating graphite in an electric arc with inert gas

• Cooling carbon dioxide rapidly

• Electrolysis of carbon compounds

• Mixing carbon with hydrogen

What type of hybridization is present in the carbon atoms of fullerene?

• SP3

• SP2

• SP

• None

How many pentagons are present in a C60 fullerene molecule?

• 10

• 20

• 12

• 15

Why is C60 fullerene also known as Buckminster fullerene?

• It was discovered by Buckminster

• It resembles a football

• It is made of 60 carbon atoms

• It has a unique chemical property