GCSE Chemistry · AQA 8462 · Topic 4.2.4
Bulk and surface properties of matter including nanoparticles
Key points
- Nanoscience studies structures 1–100 nm in size (1 nm = m), roughly a few hundred atoms.
- Particle sizes: coarse particles (PM10, dust) are 2500–10 000 nm; fine particles (PM2.5) are 100–2500 nm; nanoparticles are 1–100 nm.
- As the side of a cube decreases by a factor of 10, its surface area to volume ratio increases by a factor of 10.
- Because of their huge surface area to volume ratio, nanoparticles can have different properties from the same material in bulk, and smaller amounts may be needed, e.g. as catalysts.
- Uses include sun creams, cosmetics, deodorants, medicine and drug delivery, electronics and catalysts.
- Risks: nanoparticles could be absorbed into the body or cells and harm health or the environment; their long-term effects are not fully known, so more research is needed.
Topic notesPremium
Nanoscience studies structures so small that they contain only a few hundred atoms. At this scale a material can behave very differently from a lump of the same substance. This is chemistry-only content.
Unlock the full notes with Premium
Premium includes full topic notes, the paper generator, self-quizzes and progress tracking.
Practise this topicPremium
Premium members can generate an exam-style paper with a mark scheme, or take a quick quiz, on Bulk and surface properties of matter including nanoparticles.