Buckminsterfullerene Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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Buckminsterfullerene
[ˌbʌkmɪnstərˈfʊlərin ]
Definition
chemistry molecule
Buckminsterfullerene, commonly known as 'buckyballs', is a spherical molecule composed of 60 carbon atoms arranged in a structure that resembles the shape of a soccer ball. It is a member of the fullerene family of carbon allotropes and has unique properties that make it of interest in materials science and nanotechnology.
Synonyms
Examples of usage
- The discovery of Buckminsterfullerene revolutionized the field of nanotechnology.
- Researchers are exploring the use of Buckminsterfullerene in drug delivery systems.
- Buckminsterfullerene exhibits remarkable strength and stability.
- Scientists have synthesized new derivatives of Buckminsterfullerene for various applications.
Translations
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Interesting Facts
Discovery
- This unique structure was discovered in 1985 by scientists Robert Curl, Harold Kroto, and Richard Smalley.
- The discovery was serendipitous; while researching carbon molecules, they stumbled upon these soccer ball-shaped formations.
Applications
- Researchers are exploring its use in materials science for creating stronger and lighter materials.
- Fullerenes have potential applications in drug delivery systems and electronics, including photovoltaic cells.
Cultural Impact
- This molecule was named the 1996 Molecule of the Year by the journal 'Chemical & Engineering News'.
- It has inspired artists and architects, with its geometric structure being a subject of design in various artworks and installations.
Scientific Significance
- Buckminsterfullerene is the first known molecule to form a hollow structure, which opened up a new field of chemistry known as 'nanotechnology'.
- The discovery of fullerenes has led to further research in nanotubes and graphene, revolutionizing material science.
Origin of 'Buckminsterfullerene'
Main points about word origin
- The name combines Buckminster, after architect Richard Buckminster Fuller, who designed geodesic domes, and 'fullerene', referring to a handful of new carbon structures.
- The suffix '-ene' indicates the presence of double bonds, which are common in certain types of chemical compounds.
The term 'Buckminsterfullerene' was coined in 1985 by researchers Robert Curl, Sir Harold Kroto, and Richard Smalley, who discovered the molecule while conducting experiments to understand the nature of carbon-based materials. The name is derived from the architect and inventor Buckminster Fuller, known for his geodesic dome designs, which visually resemble the structure of the molecule. The discovery was significant as it was the first time a new form of carbon was found since the identification of graphite and diamond. Buckminsterfullerene's unique arrangement of carbon atoms has opened numerous avenues for research into its applications in various fields, such as electronics, materials science, and biomedicine. Since its discovery, further fullerenes and various derivatives have been synthesized, leading to extensive studies on their properties and potential uses.