Nanostructure

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DNA nanostructures

== Nanostructure ==

A nanostructure is a structure of intermediate size between microscopic and molecular structures. Nanostructures are typically measured in nanometers (nm), which is one billionth of a meter. They are a fundamental component in the field of nanotechnology and have applications across various scientific disciplines, including physics, chemistry, biology, and materials science.

Types of Nanostructures[edit | edit source]

Nanostructures can be classified into several types based on their dimensions:

  • Nanoparticles: These are particles with dimensions less than 100 nm in at least one dimension. They can be spherical, rod-like, or irregular in shape.
  • Nanotubes: Cylindrical nanostructures with a diameter in the nanometer range. Carbon nanotubes are a well-known example.
  • Nanowires: These are wire-like structures with a diameter in the nanometer range and can be made from various materials, including metals and semiconductors.
  • Quantum dots: Semiconductor nanocrystals that have quantum mechanical properties, leading to unique optical and electronic behaviors.
  • Thin films: Layers of material ranging from a few nanometers to several micrometers in thickness.

Properties[edit | edit source]

Nanostructures exhibit unique properties that differ significantly from their bulk counterparts due to their small size and high surface area to volume ratio. These properties include:

  • Optical properties: Nanostructures can exhibit unique optical properties such as surface plasmon resonance and quantum confinement effects.
  • Mechanical properties: Enhanced strength, flexibility, and hardness compared to bulk materials.
  • Electrical properties: Changes in electrical conductivity and the emergence of quantum effects.
  • Chemical properties: Increased reactivity and catalytic activity due to the high surface area.

Applications[edit | edit source]

Nanostructures have a wide range of applications, including:

Synthesis[edit | edit source]

Various methods are used to synthesize nanostructures, including:

See also[edit | edit source]

References[edit | edit source]

External links[edit | edit source]


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Contributors: Prab R. Tumpati, MD