Fullerenes and Carbon Nanotubes

These flashcards cover key vocabulary related to fullerenes, graphene, and carbon nanotubes, including their structures, properties, and uses.

Graphene

A single layer of graphite, one atom thick, known for its high melting point and electrical conductivity.

Fullerenes

Molecules of carbon atoms with hollow shapes, based on hexagonal rings and joined by covalent bonds.

Buckminsterfullerene

A type of fullerene made up of 60 carbon atoms arranged in a spherical shape and joined by strong covalent bonds.

Nanotubes

Cylindrical structures made from rolled layers of graphene, known for their high tensile strength and electrical conductivity.

Delocalised electrons

Electrons that are free to move across the surface, contributing to the conductive properties of graphene and nanotubes.

Tensile strength

The resistance of a material to being pulled apart; nanotubes exhibit high tensile strength.

Covalent bonds

Strong chemical bonds formed when atoms share electrons, prevalent in graphene, fullerenes, and nanotubes.

Intermolecular forces

Forces that occur between molecules; weak in buckminsterfullerene, contributing to its slippery texture and low melting point.

Composite materials

Materials made from two or more constituent materials that exhibit enhanced properties; carbon nanotube fibres are used in these.

Catalysts

Substances that increase the speed of a chemical reaction without being consumed; can be attached to nanotubes to enhance efficiency.