Fullerenes are unique molecules made entirely of carbon, shaped like hollow spheres, ellipsoids, or tubes. The most famous fullerene is the buckyball, which resembles a soccer ball and consists of 60 carbon atoms. These fascinating structures were discovered in 1985 and have since sparked interest in various fields, including materials science and nanotechnology.
These carbon molecules have remarkable properties, such as strength and electrical conductivity, making them useful in many applications. Researchers are exploring their potential in areas like drug delivery, solar cells, and even electronics. The study of fullerenes continues to reveal exciting possibilities for future innovations.