Fullerenes and Buckyballs in Science

What is the most stable type of fullerene?

Which of the following accurately describes the structure of a fullerene?

How do buckyballs improve medical imaging?

What is one potential medical application of buckyballs related to drug delivery?

Which of the following statements about buckyballs is true?

What is the average C-C bond length in fullerenes?

Which component is required to synthesize fullerenes like buckyballs?

What type of phases make up the spherical structure of a fullerene?

Fullerenes

A crystalline allotrope of carbon
A hollow ball of carbon atoms
Most stable fullerene form is C60
Consists of 20 hexagonal phases and 12 pentagonal phases with 60 vertices
Each carbon atom linked to 3 other carbon atoms
Average carbon-carbon bond length is 1.44 angstroms
Potential uses include:
- Conductors
- Synthesis of nanotubes and nanowires
- Adsorbent for gases
- Lubricants
- Antioxidants in cosmetics
- Catalysts

Buckyballs in Medicine

Potential applications in medical imaging
Metal atoms can be trapped inside buckyballs
Buckyballs containing gadolinium can be used for medical imaging and flushed out after use
Can be used to deliver drugs directly to infected regions of the body
Buckyballs can be modified to release drugs only in areas with specific pH levels
Small size of buckyballs allows them to move easily within the body

Applications of Buckyballs

Stronger polymers are being developed using buckyballs by DuPont and Exxon
Antioxidant type drugs under development or testing:
- Anti-aging or anti-wrinkle creams by Mitsubishi
- Buckyball-based drug to fight arteriosclerosis by Taiwan University
- Burn creams and an HIV drug by C Sixty

Explore the fascinating world of fullerenes, specifically the structure and properties of C60. This quiz also delves into the innovative applications of buckyballs in medicine, including drug delivery and medical imaging. Test your knowledge on their potential uses and impact on technology and health.