Thomas-Fermi model for theC60molecule

A solution of the dimensionless Thomas-Fermi equation is presented, which can be considered as a simple model for the ${\mathrm{C}}_{60}$ molecule. In the framework of this model, we derive estimates of the sphere radius ${\mathit{R}}_{\mathit{e}}$ at equilibrium, the total energy, and the scattering factor. The limitations of the model are discussed in relation to some experimental results and to some other approximations.