NANO = billionth (10⁻⁹): "NANO sounds like 'no no' — as in, particles THIS small are SO tiny it's unbelievable." 1 nanometre is 0.000000001 metres.
Bigger surface = more reactive: Imagine grinding up chalk — powdery chalk dissolves much faster in acid than a lump, because more surface is exposed. Nanoparticles take this to an extreme.
Uses of nanoparticles (SCARE):
- Sunscreens — TiO₂ blocks UV invisibly
- Catalysts — high surface area, more efficient
- Antimicrobials — silver nanoparticles kill bacteria
- Remote drug delivery — fullerenes carry drugs to target cells
- Electronics — smaller, faster circuits
This memory aid covers Memory Aids within Nanoparticles (HT) for GCSE Chemistry. Revise Nanoparticles (HT) in Bonding & Structure for GCSE Chemistry with 22 exam-style questions and 21 flashcards. This topic appears regularly enough that it should still be part of a steady revision cycle. It is section 8 of 12 in this topic. Use it for quick recall, then test yourself straight afterwards so the memory aid becomes usable in an answer.
Practice questions for Nanoparticles (HT)
What is the size range of nanoparticles?
Describe the structure of graphene and state one property that arises from this structure.