Nanoparticles Flashcards
Roughly, how big are nanoparticles?
1 - 100 nanometres across
Fullerenes are examples of nanoparticles. What element are fullerenes made of?
Carbon
What makes nanoparticles useful as catalysts?
They have very large surface areas
How do nanoparticles compare to the same substance in normal sized pieces?
They have very different properties
Give two important uses of fullerenes
Any 2: as catalysts, as lubricants, for strengthening materials (e.g. sports equipment), for delivering drugs to parts of the body.
Why do scientists need to be cautious about the use of nanoparticles?
They can be toxic to human cells or harmful to the environment, even if the material in normal sized pieces is not.
Why are nanoparticles useful as sunscreens?
They reflect UV light without looking white on the skin
Why are silver nanoparticles useful in medicine?
They have antibacterial properties
