Size Matters: Introduction to Nanoscience

Abstract:

This unit provides an introduction to nanoscience, focusing on concepts related to the size and scale, unusual properties of the nanoscale, tools of the nanosciences, and example applications. Upon completing this unit, students will understand: The study of unique phenomena at the nanoscale could vastly change our understanding of matter and lead to new questions and answers in many areas, including health care, the environment, and technology: There are enormous scale differences in our universe, and at different scales, different forces dominate and different models better explain phenomena; Nanosized materials exhibit some size-dependent effects that are not observed in bulk materials; New tools for observing and manipulating matter increase our ability to investigate and innovate. Length: 5 lessons, up to ten 50-minute classroom periods if all lessons are used. Not all lessons are required. Use the lessons most appropriate for your students.

Subject:

Science and Technology

Grade Level:

Secondary

Collection:

National Center for Learning and Teaching