Molecules of which of the following has cage like structure ? 1. Diamond 2. Graphite 3. Fullerenes Select the correct answer using the code given below:

Carbon exists in several allotropic forms, primarily diamond, graphite, and fullerenes. Diamond has a rigid three-dimensional tetrahedral structure where each carbon atom is bonded to four others [1]. Graphite consists of planar hexagonal sheets layered on top of each other, forming a two-dimensional lattice [1]. In contrast, fullerenes represent a class of carbon allotropes characterized by a closed-cage or hollow sphere structure [1]. The most prominent example, Buckminsterfullerene (C60), features 60 carbon atoms arranged in a series of interlocking pentagons and hexagons, resembling a soccer ball or a geodesic dome [1]. This unique geometry is explicitly described as a 'cage-like' or 'closed-cage' molecule because the carbon atoms form a continuous, hollow surface with no dangling bonds [1]. Therefore, among the given options, only fullerenes possess a cage-like molecular structure.

Sources

1. [1] Science , class X (NCERT 2025 ed.) > Chapter 4: Carbon and its Compounds > Allotropes of carbon > p. 61