1.

Describe the structure of fullerenes.

Answer»

Solution :(i) Fullerenes are NEWLY synthesised allotropes of carbon.
(ii) Unlike graphite and diamond, these allotropes are discrete molecules such as `C_(32),C_(50),C_(60),C_(70),C_(76)` etc..
(iii) These molecules have cage LIKE structures.
(iv) The `C_(60)` molecules have a soccer ball like structure and is called buckminster fullerene or buckyballs.
(v) It has a fused ring structure consists of 20 six membered rings and 12 FIVE memebered rings.
(vi) Each carbon atom is `SP^(2)` hybridised and forms three `sigma` bonds & a delocalised `pi` bond giving aromatic character to these molecules.
(vii) The C-C bond distance is `1.44Å` and C = C distance `1.38Å`.


Discussion

No Comment Found