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nanostructure

nanostructure

1 7.2
A very small structure measured in nanometres and used in science and technology
  • noun
  • /ˈnænoʊˌstrʌk.tʃər/
  • Specialized
translation icon : nanostructura
  • This nanostructure has unique properties that make it ideal for drug delivery systems.
  • semiconductor nanostructure
  • quantum nanostructure
  • electronic nanostructures

Examples

  • The researchers developed a new type of nanostructure that enhances the efficiency of solar panels.

  • Many examples of natural nanostructures can be found in biological systems, from seashells to the human body.

    Academic text (1993)
  • Step motion is therefore the basis for nanostructure evolution.

    Academic text (1999)
  • The idea was to consider the molecular or nanostructure of bubbles.

  • The subject of spin in semiconductor nanostructures is attracting a lot of attention.

    Academic text (2002)
  • How could nanostructures or the manufacturing of nanostructures be harmful to human health?

    Academic text (2004)
  • Researchers have been able to study individual nanostructures and have even synthesized building blocks such as nanoparticles and nanowires.

    Academic text (2004)
  • The next generation, which is just beginning, will see products possessing "active nanostructures" for mechanical, electronic, magnetic, photonic, biological, and other effects.

    Academic text (2005)
  • Assembling large quantities of nanostructures in a rational and rapid manner requires tooling, imaging systems, instrumentation, sensors, and control systems.

    Academic text (2004)
  • Scientists are studying how natural nanostructures in lotus leaves can inspire innovative water-repellent materials.

How Small

atomic structure
  • Specialized
2 4.1
nanostructure
  • Specialized
1 7.2
microstructure
  • Specialized
2 6.9

Surface Forms

nanostructure singular

Morphology

nanostructure = structure (semi-transparent) = nano + structure

The word is clearly built from the scientific prefix 'nano-' and 'structure', but the precise nanometer-scale technical sense is specialized rather than fully obvious to all learners.

Etymology

Nanostructure joins nano-, which comes from a Greek word for 'dwarf' and now means 'very small', and structure, a common word meaning 'something built or arranged'. So a nanostructure is a 'very small structure' measured in nanometers, which is why it shows special properties in technology and materials.