Nanotechnology: The Future Here Now Essay -- Science Technology Essay

Nanotechnology: The Future Here Now Webopedia defines nanotechnology as the â€Å"field of science whose goal is to control individual atoms and molecules to create computer chips and other devices that are thousands of times smaller than current technologies permit†. Current manufacturing processes use lithography to imprint circuits on semiconductor materials, at a size of less than one micron (1,000 nanometers), dealing with aggregates of millions of atoms. It is believed that this method is quickly approaching its physical limits. In order to continue reducing the size of semiconductors, new technologies that juggle individual atoms will be necessary. Popularly, the term nanotechnology refers to the science whose goal is to control individual atoms and molecules to create various things that are thousands of times smaller than the current technology allows. These processes will touch on all areas of our lives, several of great importance to our health and well being. New terms are startin g to surface, such as molecular nanotechnology, nanocoating, nanoceramics, nanoparticles and targeted nano therapies. While many definitions of nanotechnology exist, the National Nanotechnology Initiative defines nanotechnology only if the process involves all of the following: 1. Research and technology development at the atomic, molecular or macromolecular level, on the length scale of 1 – 100 nanometers. 2. Creating and using structures, devices and systems that have novel properties and functions because they are very small. 3. The ability to control and manipulate on the molecular level. Some of the societal benefits that will be important to ... ...tronics Planet.com. 07 Mar. 2005 . Nano Investor News. 07 Mar. 2005 . National Nanotechnology Initiative. 07 Mar. 2005 . Neagley, Clinton H. UCDavis Technology Transfer Center. U C Davis. 07 Mar. 2005 . Phoenix, Chris, and Mike Treder. Center for Responsible Nanotechnology. Mar. 2004. 13 Mar. 2005 . Rashid, Nancy E. UCDavis Technology Transfer Center. U C Davis. 07 Mar. 2005 . The World Health Network. 07 Mar. 2005 . United States of America. Office of Science and Technology Policy/ Executive Office of the President. National Nanotechnology Initiative. 07 Mar. 2005 WorldHealth.net. 07 Mar. 2005 .