Chemists have created and imaged a new form of carbon

The molecule called cyclocarbon joins other carbon forms, like buckyballs and carbon nanotubes

carbon ring

ONE RING  Scientists have created a new form of carbon consisting of 18 atoms arranged in a ring, illustrated here with data from an atomic force microscope. Bonds between atoms are alternately longer and shorter, giving the ring nine sides.

IBM Research

An elusive wreath of carbon has made its long-awaited debut.