Royal diamond is one of a kind

QUESTION What is the largest naturally occurring molecule?

It CAN be argued that a diamond is a single carbon molecule. the largest that has been found is the Cullinan (pictured inset), weighing a huge 3,106.75 carats (621.35g).

As it is part of the Crown Jewels, the Queen could boast to be the possessor of the world’s largest molecule.

However, many chemists do not consider a diamond to be a single molecule, as the number of atoms varies, depending on the size of the crystal.

titin is another candidate for the largest naturally occurring molecule. It’s a protein that makes muscles such as the heart elastic.

Its scientific name contains 189,819 characters and is considered to be the longest word in not just English, but any language — and takes three-anda-half hours to pronounce.

David Thomas, Hove, E. Sussex.

QUESTION What language is spoken at the start of the 1958 hit record Tom Hark by Elias And His Zig-Zag Jive Flutes?

FURTHER to the earlier answer, while tom Hark sold in its millions, the musician brothers behind it, Elias and Jack Lerole, earned just six guineas (£6.30) each. Knowing that his brother was broke, Jack gave the rights to Elias, who sold them to record firm executive rupert Bopape for the sum of £30, which he spent on clothes. Tim Bowles, Birmingham.

SEND questions and answers to: Charles Legge, Answers To Correspondents, Daily Mail, 2 Derry Street, London, W8 5TT; fax 01952 780111 or email charles.legge@dailymail.co.uk.