Why is Control Over Size and Shape Important in Nanotechnology?
In nanotechnology, controlling the size and shape of nanoparticles is crucial for several reasons. First, the optical properties of nanoparticles can be tuned by adjusting their dimensions. For instance, gold nanoparticles exhibit different colors depending on their size due to localized surface plasmon resonance (LSPR). Second, the catalytic activity of nanoparticles is often size and shape-dependent. Smaller particles have a higher surface area to volume ratio, potentially enhancing catalytic efficiency. Lastly, the biocompatibility and toxicity of nanoparticles, which are critical for biomedical applications, can be influenced by their physical dimensions.
