fullerene
Fullerenes are a unique form of carbon molecules that take on a spherical, tubular, or ellipsoidal shape. The most well-known fullerene is C60, which resembles a soccer ball and consists of 60 carbon atoms arranged in a pattern of pentagons and hexagons. These structures are part of a broader class of molecules known as carbon allotropes, which also includes graphite and diamond.
Discovered in 1985, fullerenes have potential applications in various fields, including materials science, electronics, and medicine. Their unique properties, such as high strength and electrical conductivity, make them valuable for developing new technologies, including nanotechnology and drug delivery systems.