Introduction to Nanoscale Science: Surface Area to Volume Ratio Module

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Author:

Matthew Hsu, Valerie Maynard

Subject:

Mathematics and Statistics, Science and Technology

Institution Name:

National Center for Learning and Teaching

Collection:

NanoEd

Grade Level:

Secondary

Abstract:

Many intriguing phenomena observed in the "nanoworld" can be attributed to the increase in the surface to volume ratio ( SVR ) at the nanoscale. Understanding the surface area effects to volume changes is thus crucial to the understanding of nanoscale phenomena and nanotechnology applications. As an introduction to the nanoworld, the major goals of this module are to (1) give students a feel for just how small the nanoscale is, (2) give students practice in mathematically communicating nanoscale quantities and relating them to the familiar macroscale, (3) show students that there are different ways to be small (three-, two-, and one-dimensionally), and (4) illustrate the first and foremost property that increases in importance at the nanoscale, viz., surface area. Activity 1 presents some intriguing phenomena that pique student interest in surface area effects, i.e., how physical form of a solid influences the degree to which it interacts with its environment. They find that the more spread out a solid is, the more readily it interacts. In Activity 2, two important mathematical tools are reintroduced into the student scientists' toolbox, namely, powers of 10 and scaling. Students learn to deal with powers of 10 and scale (both linear and the surprises that sometimes result when things do not scale linearly) to represent the magnitudes involved with the nanoscale. In the third activity, students then determine the relationship of the SVR changes with the shape or size of an object. They learn that this ratio changes dramatically in the nanoscale. The challenge in the culminating design project is to introduce a finely divided (high surface area) material in a carbonated beverage that will create the highest liquid geyser possible. The class also has an option to end with playing a "nano-concept" game that will help students review the foundational knowledge about the nanoscale.

Course Type:

Learning Module

Languages:

English

Material Type:

Curriculum Standards, Games, Lesson Plans

Media Format:

Downloadable docs

Conditions of Use:

Creative Commons Attribution-Noncommercial-Share Alike 2.5