Richard Smalley (physicist)

Richard Smalley was an American physicist and chemist best known for his discovery of fullerenes—unique carbon molecules shaped like spheres or tubes, with applications in nanotechnology, materials science, and medicine. He received the Nobel Prize in Chemistry in 1996, along with his colleagues, for this groundbreaking work. Smalley's research has influenced various fields, including electronics and drug delivery systems. Beyond his scientific contributions, he was an advocate for addressing global challenges like energy and sustainability. His legacy continues to inspire innovations in chemistry and materials science.