Why do fullerenes conduct electricity?

Answer 1

It is a common misconception that buckminsterfullerenes (C60) conduct electricity. They are actually electrical insulators. Although each carbon atom is only bonded with 3 other carbon atoms inC60, ie each carbon atom contributes one delocalised electron, as C60has a simple molecular structure,the delocalised electrons are not able to move from one molecule to another, thus cannot conduct electricity.

However,C60reacts with potassium to give K3C60which is a superconductor. At that pointC60 is conductive.

Answer 2

Because, like graphite, it has got delocalized electrons. These electrons, when the C60 is exposed to a potential difference, are free to move towards the positive pole of the potential difference. But it's not the better conductor compared to graphite. Graphite has more weaker forces on its layers. This makes it more lubricant and therefore more electrically conductive.

Answer 3

Yes, Buckminsterfullerene can be either a condictor like metal of a semiconductor.

Answer 4

Yes Yes