Nanotechnology is a branch of engineering that deals with the design and construction of extremely small electronic devices and machines.nanomachines,and other nano-structured materials. Its ultimate goal is to create functional systems at the molecular level of matter.
The term “nanotechnology” was coined in 1974 by Tokyo Science University professor Norio Taniguchi, who defined it as “the technology to control functions and structures at the atomic or molecular level.” This definition reflects the fact that nanotechnology must ultimately deal with objects and features that are only a few atoms or molecules in size.
While there are many different ways to achieve these goals, most nanotechnological methods share several common features. First, they make use of one or more physical phenomena that become significant only at very small length scales—such forces include surface tension, quantum confinement (electrons confined within an atom), and zero-point energy (a minimum amount of energy that exists even at absolute zero temperature). Second, these methods often involve manipulating materials on a scale smaller than their individual grains or molecules—this process is known as “working at the atomic level.” Finally, because they deal with such small objects, nanotechnological methods often require specialized tools and equipment; for example, scanning tunneling microscopes (STM) can be used to see individual atoms on a metal surface.
In general, there are two approaches to nanotechnology: “bottom-up” and “top-down.” The bottom-up approach involves building things one atom or molecule at a time—this is how nature builds living organisms. The top-down approach starts with larger structures and breaks them down into ever smaller pieces until they reach the desired size; this is how most traditional manufacturing processes work. In practice, both approaches are often used together; for example, carbon nanotubes (CNTs) can be made using either method (or a combination of both).
One area where nanotechnology has shown great promise is in medicine. Nanoparticles can be designed to target specific cells in the body while carrying drugs or other therapeutic agents. This targeted delivery system reduces side effects by ensuring that only the intended cells are exposed to the treatment while healthy tissue remains unharmed. Additionally, nanoparticles can be used for diagnostic purposes; for example, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) contrast agents help doctors better visualize tumors during surgery. There are already many FDA-approved medical applications of nanotechnology available commercially; however, researchers continue to develop new and improved ways to use nanoparticles in medicine .
Another potential application of nanotechnology is in water purification. Nanofilters can remove impurities from water more effectively than conventional filtration systems while using less energy . As freshwater becomes increasingly scarce due to climate change and population growth , developing efficient ways to cleanse contaminated water will become increasingly important .
Despite all its potential benefits , there are also some risks associated with nanotechnology . One worry is that self-replicating nano robots could eventually escape from laboratories and begin replicating uncontrollably , leading to an exponential increase in their numbers ; this could potentially overwhelm Earth’s resources , resulting in widespread starvation . Another concern is that terrorists could misuse nano devices for malicious purposes ; for example , imagine if someone released a cloud of deadly viruses whose particles were just large enoughto avoid being filtered out by standard air filtration systems . While these risks may seem farfetched , it’s importantto consider them now so we can take steps to prevent them from becoming reality . Ultimately , whether or notnanotechnology lives up t o its hype will depend on our ability t o manage its risks while reaping its rewards .”