Ask a Scientist – Nano expert: Lisa Friedersdorf

Lisa Friedersdorf, director of the National Nanotechnology Coordination Office, introduces nanotechnology as the control and manipulation of matter at the nanoscale, which is a billionth of a meter. She explains that nanotechnology operates at the atomic and molecular levels. The video highlights current and future applications of nanotechnology, as well as historical examples such as stained glass windows and ancient steel swords. These examples demonstrate that while modern tools allow us to image at the nanoscale, nanotechnology has been applied throughout history.

What is the scale at which nanotechnology operates?

• A hundredth of a meter

• A billionth of a meter

• A millionth of a meter

• A thousandth of a meter

What is one of the current uses of nanotechnology?

• Building ancient structures

• Enhancing materials in the marketplace

• Developing new languages

• Creating new planets

Which of the following is an example of nanotechnology in history?

• The development of the printing press

• The invention of the wheel

• The use of gold in stained glass windows

• The construction of the pyramids

What role did nanoparticles play in ancient steel?

• They were used to color the steel

• They enhanced the strength of swords

• They were used to decorate the steel

• They made the steel rust-resistant

What modern capability allows us to better understand nanotechnology?

• The ability to travel at the speed of light

• The ability to visualize matter at the nanoscale

• The ability to communicate with animals

• The ability to predict the weather accurately