What's smaller than a breadbox? Smaller than a mouse? Smaller than computer chip? Smaller than an amoebae? Smaller than a sugar molecule? Smaller than a carbon atom? And how would you measure how big it is? 
How does the size of something relate to its properties? There is an intrinsic relationship between micro/nano-scopic structure and the properties of materials at the macroscopic level. Across the spectrum from the microelectronic industry to scientific research, the imminent revolution in nano-technology is happening now. The workforce of the near future needs to be prepared with a strong understanding of the principles involved in nano-imaging. In the emerging nano-technology field, size matters! 

Key concepts:

Have you ever wondered:

  • Does size matter?
  • How big is big and how small is small?
  • How flat is flat and how rough is rough?
  • Where in the world is the nanoworld?
  • How much matter does it take to matter?
  • How to make the coast of California longer without changing its size?
  • Why a meter is 39.37 inches long?
  • How your life is impacted by NIST? What is a NIST?
  • What the future holds?

Learning Objectives:

  1. Explain the differences between size and scale and why they are important
  2. Effectively use scientific principles of measurement, including SI units, precision and accuracy, uncertainty.
  3. Compare the relative sizes of diverse material systems representing different disciplines
  4. Explain how various microscopies can be used to determine material structure, properties and their relationships, at various scales, in particular the nanoscale
  5. Understand the importance and prepare for a career in nanotechnology

In addition to addressing the needs of students at the beginning years of college, this module also addresses the following National Science Education Standards for grades 11-12:

Physical Science Content Standard B
  • Structure and properties of matter
  • Chemical reactions
  • Motions and forces
  • Interactions of energy and matter
Life Science Content Standard C
  • The cell
  • Interdependence of organisms
  • Matter, energy, and organization in living systems
Science and Technology Content Standard E
  • Understandings about science and technology
Science and Technology Content Standard F
  • Science and technology in local, national, and global challenges
Nature and History of Science Content Standard G
  • Science as a human endeavor
  • Nature of scientific knowledge
  • Historical perspectives