Perfect Symmetry: The Accidental Discovery of Buckminsterfullerene
- ISBN-10
- 0198557906
- ISBN-13
- 9780198557906
- Pages
- 315
- Language
- English
- Published
- 1994
- Publisher
- Oxford University Press
- Author
- J. E. Baggott
Description
This book tells the fascinating story of the discovery of buckminsterfullerene, a perfectly symmetrical soccer-ball shaped molecule composed of 60 carbon atoms. This new molecule, one of a large family of carbon cage molecules called fullerenes--represents a new form of carbon, complementing
such well-known materials as diamond and graphite. Its discovery has revolutionized our understanding of carbon, once the most familiar elements. It has heralded a new chemistry, a new range of high-temperature superconductors and some marvelous new concepts in the architecture of large carbon
structures. In this account, prize-winning science writer Jim Baggott tells the compelling story of buckminsterfullerene, from its natural occurrence in the cold chemistry of interstellar clouds to its accidental, stunning creation in a modern chemistry laboratory, and the subsequent development of
one of today's fastest-growing scientific fields. By combining a lucid and entertaining style with scientific accuracy, the author has written a book that will appeal to general readers and chemists alike.
