What evidence supports the notion that buckyballs are actual molecules and not extended materials? (a) Buckyballs are made of carbon. (b) Buckyballs have a well-defined atomic structure and molecular weight. (c) Buckyballs have a well-defined melting point. (d) Buckyballs are semiconductors. (e) More than one of the previous choices.

Name: Chemistry: The Central Science
Author: Brown
ISBN: 9780134414232

검증된 단계별 안내

Step 1: Understand the definition of a molecule. A molecule is a group of atoms bonded together, representing the smallest fundamental unit of a chemical compound that can take part in a chemical reaction.

Step 2: Consider the characteristics of buckyballs. Buckyballs, or fullerenes, are composed of carbon atoms arranged in a spherical structure.

Step 3: Evaluate option (b). A well-defined atomic structure and molecular weight are indicative of a discrete molecule, as opposed to an extended material which lacks a specific molecular weight.

Step 4: Evaluate option (c). A well-defined melting point suggests a specific molecular structure, as extended materials typically do not have a sharp melting point.

Step 5: Conclude that more than one option supports the notion that buckyballs are molecules, specifically options (b) and (c).

주요 개념

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Molecular Structure

Molecular structure refers to the arrangement of atoms within a molecule, including the types of bonds and the spatial orientation of the atoms. Buckyballs, or fullerenes, have a distinct spherical shape formed by 60 carbon atoms arranged in a pattern similar to a soccer ball, which is a key indicator of their molecular nature.

Molecular Weight

Molecular weight is the mass of a molecule calculated by summing the atomic weights of all atoms in the molecule. Buckyballs have a specific molecular weight of approximately 720 g/mol, which supports their classification as discrete molecules rather than extended materials, which typically do not have a defined molecular weight.

Phase Transition Properties

Phase transition properties, such as melting points, indicate the behavior of a substance when it changes states. Buckyballs exhibit a well-defined melting point, which is characteristic of molecular substances, as opposed to extended materials that may not have a clear melting point due to their continuous structure.