Nanotechnology is the science, engineering and technology of nanoparticles which are between 1 nanometer and 100 nanometers in size.

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Although nanoscience is a new field, nanomaterials have unknowingly been used for decades by early civilisations. Due to the extremely small size of nanoparticles, they have some very unique and useful physical and chemical properties such as being high in strength, light in weight and varying chemical reactivities. These physical and chemical properties depend on the shape, size, surface area, structure, and composition (what it is made up of). As a result of these many useful physical and chemical properties of nanoparticles and the ability to manipulate the nanoparticles to suit a particular need, nanotechnology has many uses.

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Nanoparticles can also be found in nature as well in the form of volcanic ash, sea spray, in viruses and are naturally produced through combustion processes such as forest fires and engines. Humans have researched and engineered nanoparticles to enhance the products that we use everyday. Nanoparticles can be found in a range of everyday products such as cleaning products, water treatment, protective paint, cosmetics, bulletproof vests, pesticides, sunscreens and even food such as cheese, yoghurt and whipped cream.

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To learn more about Nanotechnology:

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