Nano-scale Particles

-Nano-scale particles, often referred to as nanoparticles, refer to structures that are between 1 and 100 nanometres in size. One nanometre is one billionth of a metre.

  • Nanoparticles have a larger surface area to volume ratio compared to larger particles of the same substance. This enhanced surface area can lead to changes in properties, such as increased reactivity.

  • Many substances behave differently in their bulk and nano forms. For example, gold at the nanoscale is red, while bulk gold is metallic and shiny, showcasing that nanoparticles can have different colours depending on their size.

  • Nanoparticles can be used in a wide range of applications, from medicine and cosmetics to electronics and materials science.

  • In medicine, nanoparticles can potentially target specific areas for drug delivery, increasing the effectiveness and reducing side effects.

  • In cosmetics, particles in sunscreen can provide protection from UV light without leaving a white residue.

  • The large surface area to volume ratio of nanoparticles also makes them efficient in catalysts, as they allow more particles to react at once.

  • However, nanoparticles also pose potential risks to the environment and human health. They can enter the body or the ecosystem and cause harm, and more research is being conducted to fully understand the potential impact.

  • In terms of bonding, the nanoparticles can be held together by covalent bonds, ionic bonds, or metallic bonds, much like in larger structures of the same substance.

  • Nanotubes and buckyballs are examples of carbon-based nanoparticles. The former is cylindrical in structure while the latter has a spherical structure. They are both forms of fullerene, a particular form of carbon.

  • Understanding nanoparticle behaviour involves both chemistry and physics. This is a significant interdisciplinary field of study within the broad spectrum of nanotechnology.

  • Remember, the key concept to remember regarding nanoparticles is their large surface area to volume ratio and how this aspect impacts their properties and potential applications.