Nanotechnology: Understanding Small Systems, Second Edition

Winner of a CHOICE Outstanding Academic Book Award 2011!

Transistors using one electron at a time. Sunscreens made with titanium dioxide particles that look transparent to our eyes but block harmful UV rays. Nanometer-sized specks of gold that change color to red and melt at 750°C instead of 1064°C. Nanotechnology takes the unique physical properties of items measuring roughly 0.1 to 1000 nanometers and puts them to use. Such applications have made nanotechnology a hot topic, but the search for a true introductory resource usually comes up cold. Nano novices come from a wide variety of backgrounds, so an effective text must assume limited understanding of background material and not be overly focused on any particular area. Still, it must maintain scientific rigor and quality. Fitting neatly between popular science books and high-level treatises , Understanding Small Systems, Second Edition works from the ground up to Comparing nanoscale and macroscale systems reveals the complex and fundamental differences between phenomena at different scales and uncovers the specific challenges and opportunities of nano. With its engaging and entertaining style, this book provides a gateway into an exciting and rapidly evolving area of science.