What Is Nanotechnology And How Will It Change Our Lives

Nanotechnology is a scientific discipline that is focused on manipulating matter at the atomic and molecular level. It involves working on a nanoscale, this is a scale that is too small to be seen with a regular light microscope. One nanometre is amazingly one-billionth the size of a meter, and atoms are even smaller. Though it is almost impossible to give an accurate quantification of an atom's size, as they do not usually hold a specific shape, most are described as having a diameter that is a tenth of a nanometer.Through nanotechnology we can manipulate molecules and create a range of fascinating and useful materials that have amazing properties. One of the best examples would be the carbon nanotube. To make a carbon nanotube you start with a graphite molecule sheet which is then rolled up to become a tube. It is the orientation of the actual molecules that help determine a nanotube's inherent properties. A carbon nanotube is hundred of times tougher than steel, though only has a weight that is one-sixth of steel.The number of applications for this type of technology is almost endless, by using the basic building blocks of matter, amazing creations can be brought to life. For example, by adding zinc oxide nano-particles into a sun screen cream, individuals can be protected against the harmful ultra-violet rays of the sun with an efficiency far greater than is had through regular sun block products.The biomedical industry is at the forefront of research into nanotechnology. It is hoped that this discipline will help in the treatment of various diseases and ailments in the coming decades. Already, doctors have been attempting to manipulate the molecules that make up the protein casings of viruses to administer small amount of drugs which can combat cancer.There are new discoveries being made in this field on a constant basis. Researchers have recently found that a metal such as gold has different properties of temperature and magnetism at the nanoscale than it has when in bulk. This is information that is extremely important for the manufacturing industry.As more research and investment is directed into this field, it is not an exaggeration to say that nanotechnology will revolutionize all of our lives. We should never underestimate the power of the smallest particles and molecules. It will not be long before nanoscale objects will become used and adapted to benefit us all.