Nanotechnology: The Science Of Atomic Manipulation 

Nanotechnology is the science of manipulation and manufacture of materials and devices at the subatomic, atomic or molecular level, of the size ranging from 1 to 100 nanometers. The scale used at this level is referred to as ‘nanoscale’. The nanoscale measures size in nanometers which is the billionth part of a metre.

At this small scale, matter exhibits novel properties physically, chemically and biologically. The properties exhibited by the matter at this level are far different from the properties exhibited by batter at the bulk level. To improve your knowledge about the different properties of matter at the nanoscale, continue with this article.

Nanotechnology Definition

Nanotechnology includes the understanding as well as control of matter having at least one dimension size ranging from 1 -100 nanometers. It includes the manipulation of matter at the subatomic, atomic and the molecular level, which results in altered physical and chemical properties. This altered matter is then used for the manufacture of devices and materials with various applications including medicine, electronics, textile, sports and energy etc.

Types of Nanotechnology

Nanotechnology is classified on two basis:

On the basis of approach of the work

• Descending (top-down): This is an approach of dividing a microparticle into smaller divisions which is 1 to 100 nanometers in size. This is the most frequently used approach.
• Ascending (bottom-up): In this approach, the process usually starts with a molecule or other nanometric structures and then builds up larger mechanisms.

On the basis of  medium of work

• Dry nanotechnology: This includes working with materials which are free from humidity. Example: coal, semiconductors, metals and several inorganic materials. 
• Wet nanotechnology: As of the name, it includes biological systems in the aqueous environment. Example: enzymes, genetic material, other cellular components, membranes etc.

Examples of Nanotechnology

Nanotechnology holds importance in our day to day life. Some of the major applications of nanotechnology includes:

Medicine:

There is immense use of nanotechnology in the medical field. Nanotechnology have led to the manufacture of :

• Better imaging and diagnostics tools for the early detection, diagnostics and treatment of various diseases.
• Gold nanoparticles for the treatment of cancer.

Electronics:

Transistors, MRAM (Magnetic Random Access Memory), Flash memory chips, Ultra high definition displays and televisions, nanoparticle copper suspensions etc are a great example of nanotechnology. 

Clothing:

With the use of nanotechnology, several ‘smart fabrics’ could be engineered which will be equipped with washable nanoscale sensors for the health detection purposes. These sensors may also be used for the energy creation purpose such as creating energy with body movements and solar energy storage. Many wearables contain nanoparticles which results in greater durability, water resistance and reduced odour of the fabric. 

Cosmetics:

Many sunscreens contain nanoscale titanium dioxide and zinc oxide for the protection of the skin from the harmful UV radiations of the sun. These sunscreens are invisible on the skin and are adequate for the users.

Adhesives:

To increase the durability and improve the stickiness of the adhesives, nanoparticles are introduced in the adhesives.

Sports:

Many sports equipment are added with nanoparticles to improve their endurance and performance. These sports equipment are equipped with sensors for improved performance.

Energy:

One of the major applications of nanotechnology is in energy production. Some of the devices built with the use of nanotechnology are:

●      Solar cells

●      Hydrogen fuel cells

●      Nano graphene batteries

Automobile:

Cars and other automobiles are manufactured with the inclusion of nanoparticles to make them light weight and also scratch resistant.

Furniture:

Nanoparticles are introduced in the furniture to improve their durability and make them light weight. Nanoparticles not only improve the durability, but also increase the tolerance of the paint.

Environment:

Nanobubbles and nanofilters are developed to purify wastewater from heavy metals. Ions are also used to purify air. Nanocatalysts to catalyse reactions at a faster pace with less pollution are also being developed with the use of nanotechnology. 

■ Also Read: Effective Tips for Radiant Skin: Natural and Spiritual Approaches

Nanotechnology: Risks related to nanotechnology

While considering the immense use of nanotechnology in various fields, one should not ignore the risks associated with the use of nanotechnology.

There are many risks associated with nanotechnology:

• Environmental and health risks: We still use nanoparticles in food and other items, but we do not know the long term impact of these nanoparticles. The nanoparticles could harm human health and also lead to the deterioration of the environmental conditions. 
• Ethical risks: The use of nanotechnology in the healthcare sector might lead to harmful side effects as well as interfere with the privacy of the users.
• Existential risks: The developments of self replicating nanobots have resulted in developing the fear of nanotechnology takeover of the present day humanity.
• Economic risks: The nanoparticles in use have replaced the existential job workers and have resulted in the advancements of the technologically updated society. This could create economic risks in the upcoming generations.

Best use of Technology: Spiritual Discourse

The human birth is the only birth in which one has the knowledge of right and wrong. This ability to identify the evils and the odds is only present to humans. This indicates the importance of human birth. This human body is granted to us by the Almighty for some special purpose.

The soul purpose of the human birth is to achieve the Supreme God Kabir Saheb residing in the eternal abode. Saint Rampal Ji Maharaj ji grants true scripture based worship to attain Kabir Saheb Ji. Readers are requested to take initiation from Saint Rampal Ji Maharaj and attain the eternal abode.

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