What does fullerene mean?
Fullerenes are a class of carbon molecules that have garnered significant attention in recent years due to their unique properties and potential applications. Composed entirely of carbon, these molecules can form hollow spheres, ellipsoids, or tubes, making them of interest to materials scientists and researchers. The study of fullerenes has led to a deeper understanding of carbon's behavior at the molecular level, and has paved the way for breakthroughs in fields such as nanotechnology and materials science. While fullerenes are typically used in scientific and technical contexts, they may also appear in popular media to describe novel carbon structures. As research continues to uncover the properties and potential applications of fullerenes, it is likely that these molecules will play an increasingly important role in shaping the future of materials science and beyond.
nounA molecule composed entirely of carbon, in the form of a hollow sphere, ellipsoid, or tube. Fullerenes are a class of allotropes of carbon.
- A molecule composed entirely of carbon, in the form of a hollow sphere, ellipsoid, or tube.
"Researchers have discovered a new fullerene with unique properties that could lead to breakthroughs in materials science."
"Researchers have discovered a new fullerene with unique properties that could lead to breakthroughs in materials science."
"The study of fullerenes has led to a deeper understanding of carbon's behavior at the molecular level."
The plural form 'fullerenes' is used to describe multiple fullerenes, and is commonly used in scientific and technical contexts.
"The study of fullerenes has led to a deeper understanding of carbon's behavior at the molecular level."
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Etymology of fullerene
The term 'fullerene' was coined in 1985 by Harry Kroto, a British chemist who first discovered these molecules. The name is derived from the English word 'fuller,' which refers to a person who stuffs or cleans animal hides. This etymology reflects the fact that fullerenes are composed of a network of carbon atoms that are 'stuffed' together to form a hollow structure.
Usage notes
Fullerenes are typically used in scientific and technical contexts, but may also appear in popular media to describe novel carbon structures.