Question 1: Fullerenes are molecules composed entirely of carbon, shaped like hollow spheres, ellipsoids, or tubes. Graphene is a single layer of carbon atoms arranged in a hexagonal lattice. Describe the key structural difference between Fullerenes and Graphene.

Answer: Fullerenes are three-dimensional hollow structures, while Graphene is a two-dimensional single-layer sheet.

Question 1: What type of covalent bonds are present between carbon atoms in Graphene?

Answer: Strong sigma bonds between carbon atoms arranged in a hexagonal lattice.

Question 2: Explain why Fullerenes can conduct electricity despite being molecules.

Answer: Because they have delocalized electrons over their structure, allowing electrical conductivity.

Question 1: Calculate the molar mass of a C60 Fullerene molecule. (Atomic mass of Carbon = 12.01 g/mol)

Answer: 720.6 g/mol

Question 2: If a sheet of Graphene has a surface area of 2 m^2 and contains approximately 3 x 10^19 carbon atoms, what is the average area per carbon atom? (Assume uniform distribution).

Answer: 6.67 x 10^-20 m^2 per atom

Question 1: Describe a safe method to handle samples of Fullerenes in a laboratory setting, including necessary precautions.

Answer: Handle with gloves and eye protection in a well-ventilated area, avoid inhalation, and use appropriate containment to prevent inhalation or ingestion.

Question 2: List two potential hazards associated with working with Graphene powders and how to mitigate them.

Answer: Hazards: inhalation of fine particles and skin contact. Mitigation: use fume hoods, wear masks and gloves.

Question 1: A sample of Graphene exhibits a tensile strength of 130 GPa and a Young's modulus of 1 TPa. Explain how these properties relate to its structure and potential applications.

Answer: The high tensile strength and Young's modulus result from the strong covalent bonds in the hexagonal lattice of carbon atoms, making Graphene extremely strong and flexible. These properties enable its use in flexible electronics, composite materials, and high-strength coatings.

Question 1: Identify one application of Fullerenes in medicine and explain its significance.

Answer: Fullerenes are used in drug delivery systems because their hollow structure can encapsulate medicinal molecules, enabling targeted treatment.

Question 2: Discuss how Graphene's electrical conductivity could impact the development of new electronic devices.

Answer: Graphene's exceptional electrical conductivity can lead to faster, more efficient electronic devices such as flexible displays, high-speed transistors, and improved batteries due to its high electron mobility and conductivity.