Question

In Buckminster fullerene, the number of six-membered carbon rings is ‘x’ and five-membered carbon rings is ‘y’. What is the value of (x + y)?

• A. 30
• B. 31
• C. 32
• D. 33

Hint:

Buckminster fullerene (C$_{60}$) always contains exactly 12 pentagons and 20 hexagons—this is true for all fullerene-type structures.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is C

Step 1: Understanding the structure of Buckminster fullerene (C$_{60}$) 
Buckminster fullerene is a spherical molecule made of 60 carbon atoms arranged in a pattern of pentagons and hexagons. 
Step 2: Geometry of Buckminster fullerene 
It resembles a soccer ball structure with: 12 five-membered carbon rings (y = 12) 20 six-membered carbon rings (x = 20) 
Step 3: Add the two 
\[ x + y = 20 + 12 = 32 \]