Nanotechnology
The manipulation of matter at the scale of 1 to 100 nanometers for novel applications.
Also: nanotech · nanoscale engineering
Definition
Nanotechnology is the science, engineering, and application of materials and devices with structures and components at the nanoscale (1-100 nanometers), where unique physical, chemical, and biological properties emerge that differ from bulk materials. Applications include drug delivery, electronics, materials science, energy storage, and medicine. Carbon nanotubes and quantum dots are examples of nanoscale materials with extraordinary properties.
Example
“Researchers are developing nanoparticles coated with antibodies that can navigate the bloodstream to selectively bind to cancer cells and deliver chemotherapy drugs directly to tumors, dramatically reducing the toxic side effects of conventional treatment.”
Synonyms
- nanoscale engineering
- molecular engineering
- nanotech
Antonyms / Opposites
- macro engineering
- bulk material engineering
Images
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Related Terms
- Semiconductor
- Quantum Mechanics
- Materials Science
- Drug Delivery