In the book Stuff Matters, Mark Miodownik delves into the intricacies of the materials that allow the modern world to exist and thrive. In chapter 8, Unbreakable, Miodownik discusses the significance and characteristics of various forms of carbon in a historical lens. Although derived from the same element, graphite, diamond, and graphene all have unique properties unlike any other materials. Miodownik begins by offering a relatable anecdote to his childhood art class in order to truly show the readers the prevalence and wonder of carbon. He then focuses the central idea of the chapter on the effect of structure on properties and uses. Miodownik provides a thorough exploration of the various structures and properties of carbon. Graphite
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One page 177, his description of graphene has truly amazed me. I did not know a real-world material could be 2-dimensional and completely flat. I was also astonished that even though graphene is so thin it is even harder than a diamond; something I had previously believed to be the hardest thing on Earth. Miodownik’s description of carbon nanotubes was also fascinating. The structure of nanotubes is extremely complex and most interestingly they self-assemble into their tube-like structures. Because of their structure they have no Vander Waal’s forces and have the highest strength of any material. According to Miodownik, if an elevator connecting the earth and space was to be built, it would be made from carbon nanotubes. Extravagant ideas like this are only possible because of the advances in materials science. Currently there isn’t a material, maybe with the exception of the carbon nanotubes, that is strong enough to support its own weight when built to a height of many miles. But possibly with the further advancement of materials science such a structure will be possible.
Carbon has truly impacted my entire life. Since childhood, I have used graphite pencils to write down many of my thoughts and ideas. One of my dearest hobbies is centered around graphite. I love to draw and graphite is an excellent medium. In addition, carbon fibers are …show more content…
Coal is also a very useful carbon-based material. Coal can be used as a source of fire and energy or in the smelting of metals to make them stronger. For many centuries, it has been used a source of fuel. Many generations would not have been able to survive if it weren’t for the energy stored in coal. The book also does not fully discuss all of the uses of graphite. Graphite is a very good conductor and so it is commonly used in electrodes. There are few materials that can withstand the heat that graphite can. Carbon black is another type of carbon material that is used in the production of ink. It is also something society uses every day. Activated charcoal is another use of carbon. It is a processed form that is highly porous. It acts as an excellent filter and can remove various contaminants. It is also safe for human ingestion
One page 177, his description of graphene has truly amazed me. I did not know a real-world material could be 2-dimensional and completely flat. I was also astonished that even though graphene is so thin it is even harder than a diamond; something I had previously believed to be the hardest thing on Earth. Miodownik’s description of carbon nanotubes was also fascinating. The structure of nanotubes is extremely complex and most interestingly they self-assemble into their tube-like structures. Because of their structure they have no Vander Waal’s forces and have the highest strength of any material. According to Miodownik, if an elevator connecting the earth and space was to be built, it would be made from carbon nanotubes. Extravagant ideas like this are only possible because of the advances in materials science. Currently there isn’t a material, maybe with the exception of the carbon nanotubes, that is strong enough to support its own weight when built to a height of many miles. But possibly with the further advancement of materials science such a structure will be possible.
Carbon has truly impacted my entire life. Since childhood, I have used graphite pencils to write down many of my thoughts and ideas. One of my dearest hobbies is centered around graphite. I love to draw and graphite is an excellent medium. In addition, carbon fibers are …show more content…
Coal is also a very useful carbon-based material. Coal can be used as a source of fire and energy or in the smelting of metals to make them stronger. For many centuries, it has been used a source of fuel. Many generations would not have been able to survive if it weren’t for the energy stored in coal. The book also does not fully discuss all of the uses of graphite. Graphite is a very good conductor and so it is commonly used in electrodes. There are few materials that can withstand the heat that graphite can. Carbon black is another type of carbon material that is used in the production of ink. It is also something society uses every day. Activated charcoal is another use of carbon. It is a processed form that is highly porous. It acts as an excellent filter and can remove various contaminants. It is also safe for human ingestion