Perfect Symmetry: The Accidental Discovery of Buckminsterfullerene [Hardcover]

Jim Baggott (Author)

Book Description

Publication Date: January 5, 1995

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.

Editorial Reviews

Review

"Provides an overview of the state of the field that is as well informed and as up to date as one could wish.... Lavishly illustrated, largely with figures from the original sources.... Very well written and rewarding. You will get an excellent account of the story." --Nature

--This text refers to an out of print or unavailable edition of this title.

Product Details

• Hardcover: 328 pages
• Publisher: Oxford University Press, USA; First Edition edition (January 5, 1995)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 0198557906
• ISBN-13: 978-0198557906
• Product Dimensions: 9.5 x 6.4 x 0.9 inches
• Shipping Weight: 1.6 pounds
• Amazon Best Sellers Rank: #1,363,508 in Books (See Top 100 in Books)