Discovery and uses of carbon nanostructures
I can describe the scientific discovery process and relate the uses of nanostructures to their properties, structure and bonding.
Discovery and uses of carbon nanostructures
I can describe the scientific discovery process and relate the uses of nanostructures to their properties, structure and bonding.
These resources will be removed by end of Summer Term 2025.
Lesson details
Key learning points
- Scientists discovered and isolated fullerenes accidentally, which led to exciting new possibilities in chemistry.
- Research into the allotropes of carbon is an important part of chemistry's history, earning multiple Nobel Prizes.
- Graphene is so thin that it's nearly transparent, allowing most light to pass through.
- Fullerenes, nanotubes, and graphene have a wide range of real-world uses in fields like electronics and medicine.
- Scientific discoveries have the power to change the world, even if their significance takes time to be fully understood.
Keywords
Fullerene - A molecular allotrope of carbon. Each atom is covalently bonded to three others, forming nanoparticles with hollow spheres or tubes.
Graphene - An allotrope of carbon consisting of a sheet that is one-atom-thick. Each atom is covalently bonded to three others arranged in hexagonal rings.
Nanotube - A cylindrical fullerene, essentially a tube of graphene. A nanoparticle known for its strength and electrical conductivity.
Common misconception
Students may think that all carbon allotrope discoveries were recent and that these materials are primarily used in cutting-edge, futuristic applications.
Emphasise the timeline of discoveries (graphite > fullerenes > nanotubes > graphene), highlighting theoretical predictions preceding isolation. Discuss current uses (e.g. nanotubes in sporting equipment) alongside potential future breakthroughs.
Licence
This content is © Oak National Academy Limited (2024), licensed on Open Government Licence version 3.0 except where otherwise stated. See Oak's terms & conditions (Collection 2).
Lesson video
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Starter quiz
6 Questions
A substance made from only one type of atom.
A substance made from two or more elements chemically bonded together.
The temperature at which a substance changes from a solid to a liquid.
Substances that allow electricity to pass through them easily.
Can be directly observed or measured without a chemical reaction.
Exit quiz
6 Questions
An allotrope of carbon consisting of a sheet that is one atom thick.
An allotrope of carbon that forms hollow spheres or tubes.
A fullerene that can form a cylinder.