Loops is a speciality of organic chemistry. Continuous bonds between the atoms can form chains. In most of the inorganic compounds number of atoms number less than 7-8. Where as this number in organic compounds could be few hundred.

These atoms form various interesting patterns. One of the form is loop. In carbon atoms the bonds sometimes are at an angle of 120 degrees. This is perfect for a hexagon. On its own carbon atoms can make continuous hexagons. Sometimes these are nearly infinitely (say a million) in graphite/graphene In benzene these is just one hexagon.

On its own carbon can make complex structures but never pentagons. With nitrogen atoms in between pentagons are formed. Most of the complex webs of atoms in our body are combinations of hexagons and pentagons.

If you look at a football you will find hexagons and pentagons in its skin. On its own hexagons can’t make spherical objects.

There is amusing similarities between number five and anatomy of animals. All of them except for primates have four limbs and a tail. Then we have five fingers to each limb.

Artistically such trivial coincidences appealed me. Also I in my limited search did not find any higher or lower order polygon. Making me wonder that everything is about 5 and 6



Comments

One response to “5 and 6”

  1. Siddhartha Avatar
    Siddhartha

    This was an insightful read that helped me understand the theme of the exhibition. Looking forward to seeing all of the paintings.

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