The Earthball is a fantastic tool for discussing our planet with children, combining playtime with education!

Cecilia Scorza, EU-UNAWE Germany

What's the Matter?

This weird-looking picture shows a number of molecules (Moll-eh-kyools), which are groups of two or more atoms stuck together. Molecules are so small that nobody can see them, except with extremely powerful microscopes. The football shaped molecules in this picture are made up of 60 carbon atoms, hence its name “C60”. Carbon is a very important chemical for all life on Earth. Is a big part of the world we live in, from the carbon dioxide in the air to the plants we eat. And almost one-fifth of our body is made up of carbon!

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NAOJ

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