Forms of Carbon Some allotropes of carbon: diamond; graphite; Lonsdaleite; d–f) fullerenes (C60, C540, C70); g) amorphous carbon; h) carbon nanotube.

Carbon Nanotubes Effectively a single layer of graphite only in a cylinder. Can be conductive or semi- conductive. Many applications: energy storage and conversion, sensors, radiation sources, semi conductors, probes, hydrogen storage…. http://www.nanotech-now.com/ http://www.nanoshel.com/ owing to their extraordinary thermal conductivity and mechanical and electrical properties These sheets are rolled at specific and discrete ("chiral") angles, and the combination of the rolling angle and radius decides the nanotube properties; for example, whether the individual nanotube shell is a metal or semiconductor. bicycle components—including flat and riser handlebars, cranks, forks, seatposts, stems and aero bars. has also built a 54' maritime vessel, the Piranha Unmanned Surface Vessel, as a technology demonstrator for what is possible using CNT technology. tips for atomic force microscope probes[111] in tissue engineering, carbon nanotubes can act as scaffolding for bone growth[1 Nanotube-based transistors, also known as carbon nanotube field-effect transistors (CNTFETs), have been made that operate at room temperature and that are capable of digital switching using a single electron.[ Long lasting energy efficient batteries. Solar cells, hydrogen storage units, radar absorption,

Bucky Balls (Buckminsterfullerine C60) Resembles a soccer ball pattern. Naturally found in soot and space. Exhibits wave particle duality (largest molecule to do so) Could “store” molecules inside of them. radioactive delivery system chemical tracers HIV inhibitor Super conductor at 18K higher with doping Hydrogen storage Highest known molecular super conductor temp wise.

Silicone as a basis for life? (not testable on exam) Smallest element with same valence electron structure as carbon Many similar properties to carbon Probably not as likely as SciFi makes it out to be Doesn’t bind with as many atoms Doesn’t make double or triple bonds, severely limiting chemistry Si chains with H are unstable in water. Si chains with O are more stable, but still not as stable as carbon. Metal oxides, Boron, Sulfur all possible

Noble Gases He Ne Ar Kr Xe He: refrigerant for super conducting magnets like in MRIs: used in scuba diving and blimbs. Many uses where you need an “inert” atmosphere, chemistry, lightbulbs, storage ect….. “Neon” lights, which are really many elements. Interesting tidbit: Argon means “the lazy one” in greek. Helium walks into a bar, The bar tender says "We don't serve noble gasses in here." Helium doesn't react. He Ne Ar Kr Xe