What is a Nanometer?
Students are introduced to the nano-size length scale as they make measurements and calculate unit conversions. They measure common objects and convert their units to nanometers, giving them a simple reference frame for understanding the very small size of nanometers. Then, they compare provided length data from objects too small to measure, such as a human hair and a flea, giving them a comparative insight to the nanotechnology scale. Using familiar and common objects for comparison helps students understand more complex scientific concepts.
Bucky balls (or a C60 molecule) are extremely small. These strong, rigid molecules that form structures that resemble soccer balls are a major subject of nanotechnology research.Copyright 2010 James Hedberg. Free science images.
http://www.jameshedberg.com/scienceGraphics.php?sort=all&id=c60-buckyball-atoms-blue
Engineers need to have a good sense in the scale of measurements. That is, be able to identify measurement, roughly, in conditions in which a measuring tape, ruler or other device is not available. Engineers must always pay close attention to units and correct conversions to ensure their mathematical and scientific relationships are equivalent from one measuring system to another. Making correct unit conversions are extremely important to the scientific and engineering community and are a fundamental type of calculation often overlooked by secondary school students.
After this activity, students should be able to:
- Make measurements using multiple measuring techniques.
- Perform unit conversions.
- Explain the nano-sized length scale as it compares to multiple references.