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N A N O T E C H N O L O G Y

What is nanotechnology?

Nanotechnology is a field of science and engineering that uses nanoparticles to make very small electronic and mechanical objects. Nanoparticles are the size of atoms, and when they are combined they can be made into tiny machines or living things.


Where does nanotechnology get its name from?

The devices made from nanotechnology are very small and are measured in nanometres. One nanometer is 200 times smaller then the thickness of one strand of hair from your head!


What are the types of nanoparticles?


How could nanotechnology be used to help the environment?

Nanotechnology could be used to help solve some of the world's most serious health, environmental, and energy problems. This technology will produce devices that are smaller, lighter, faster and cheaper. If nanoparticles can be made that repair and recycle themselves, then we will need to use fewer materials and less energy to produce things.


What exactly could nanotechnology be used for, in order to help the environment?


Is nanotechnology safe?

Scientists do not yet know. It is possible, though, that:


What can you do to help?

Ask your parents to be careful when buying products that may have nanoparticles in them.

Remember…

Though nanotechnology may be able to help the environment, we need to find out much more about it before we start making good use of it.