Background for fullerenes

fullerenes

/ˈfʊləriːnz/ /ˈfʊləriːnz/

Illustration fullerenes - Image 1

noun

Any of a class of allotropes of carbon having hollow molecules whose atoms lie at the vertices of a polyhedron having 12 pentagonal and 2 or more hexagonal faces.

Examples :

"Scientists are researching how to use fullerenes to deliver medicine directly to cancer cells. "

compound chemistry material substance science

Illustration fullerenes - Image 1

noun

Any closed-cage compound having twenty or more carbon atoms consisting entirely of 3-coordinate carbon atoms.

Examples :

"Scientists are exploring how fullerenes, with their unique spherical structures made of carbon, can be used to deliver medicine directly to cancer cells. "

compound material substance chemistry science

Illustration fullerenes - Image 1

noun

(by extension) The class of carbon allotropes consisting of tubular carbon molecules (carbon nanotubes) and spheroidal carbon molecules (traditional fullerenes).

Examples :

"Scientists are exploring how fullerenes, including both carbon nanotubes and spherical molecules, can be used to create stronger and lighter materials for cars. "

material chemistry substance compound science physics