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The structure of a buckminsterfullerene with 60 atoms is drawn on the right - Leaving Cert Chemistry - Question B - 2003
Question B
The structure of a buckminsterfullerene with 60 atoms is drawn on the right. (i) Atoms of what element make buckminsterfullerenes? (4) (ii) Name two other covalent... show full transcript
Worked Solution & Example Answer:The structure of a buckminsterfullerene with 60 atoms is drawn on the right - Leaving Cert Chemistry - Question B - 2003
Step 1
Atoms of what element make buckminsterfullerenes?
Answer
The atoms that make up buckminsterfullerenes are carbon atoms. Carbon is unique in its ability to form stable, covalent bonds with other carbon atoms, which allows for the creation of the spherical structure characteristic of buckminsterfullerene.
Step 2
Name two other covalent macromolecular crystals formed by this element. What are the binding forces in each of these crystals?
Answer
Two other covalent macromolecular crystals formed by carbon are:
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Diamond: In diamond, the carbon atoms are arranged in a tetrahedral structure, and the binding forces are covalent bonds, which are very strong, leading to diamond's hardness.
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Graphite: In graphite, the carbon atoms are arranged in layers, and the binding forces between the layers are van der Waals forces (London dispersion forces). Within each layer, the carbon atoms are bonded covalently.
Step 3