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.
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.