Chapter 2: The Nanoscale World
The nanoscale world, which ranges from approximately 1 to 100 nanometers, is characterized by unique properties and behaviors that differ significantly from bulk materials. Key factors include a high surface area to volume ratio, quantum effects, and varying reactivity and stability, which lead to innovative applications in technology and medicine. Understanding these factors is crucial for leveraging nanomaterials' potential.
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What we have learnt
- The nanoscale range is 1 to 100 nanometers, where materials exhibit distinct behaviors.
- High surface area to volume ratios in nanomaterials enhance reactivity and properties.
- Quantum effects and surface effects critically influence the behavior of nanoparticles.
Key Concepts
- -- Nanoscale
- A size range from approximately 1 to 100 nanometers where materials exhibit unique properties.
- -- Surface Area to Volume Ratio
- A measure that indicates how much surface area exists for each unit of volume, which significantly increases in nanomaterials.
- -- Quantum Effects
- Behavioral changes in materials at the nanoscale due to quantization of energy levels.
- -- Surface Effects
- Characteristics and reactivities of nanomaterials affected by the increased ratio of surface atoms.
- -- Reactivity
- The tendency of a substance to undergo chemical reactions, which is often higher in nanoscale materials than in bulk materials.
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