By Michael James

What Is Nanotechnology? The definition of Nanotechnology is debated. It is defined loosely as the engineering of functional systems at the molecular scale.

How Does Nanotechnology Work? Scientists can potentially create anything using nanotechnology. Everything living and non-living is made from atoms Scientists put these atoms together and are able to create essentially anything on an incredibly small scale

Nanotechnology Diagram This Diagram helps to give an idea of how tiny nanotechnology is. This technology deals with materials and machines on an astonishingly small scale.

General-Purpose Technology Nanotechnology is often referred to as general- purpose technology As this technology is developed… Industries will be significantly impacted Products will be increasingly available to general public All of society will eventually adopt products made with nanotechnology

Products with Nanotechnology Product NameAlready on the Market? Self-cleaning glassYes SunscreenYes Antimicrobial bandagesYes ClothingYes HousingNo

Duel-Use Technology Because nanotechnology can potentially be used to create anything… Benefits Risks Nanotechnology will be used… Commercially Militarily

Benefits of Nanotechnology Potential benefits Health Agricultural Communication Commercial

Health Benefits Potential ability to solve many human problems… Better health Improved housing Improved plumbing

Agricultural Benefits More efficient agriculture and industry save water Land Materials Labor reduce pollution

Communication Benefits Communication provides many opportunities for Self improvement Economic efficiency Participatory government

Commercial Benefits Commercial products will be… Better built Longer lasting Cleaner Safer Smarter

Potential Benefits Are Endless Nanotechnology provides reliable, inexpensive power that is vital for the use of other technologies. Links to additional benefits y3.htm y3.htm

Nanotechnology Risks and Dangers Risks/Dangers Medical worries Military uses Criminal and terrorist use Disrupt basic economy

Medical Dangers Medical risks Scientists/doctors do not fully understand the behavior of the elements on the nanoscale. Some nanoparticles could be toxic.

Military Dangers Constant surveillance of citizens Powerful new weapons Could lead to an arms race between countries Risk of criminals/terrorists using nanoweapons Compact devices would make it much easier to cause serious damage to a society

Disrupt Basic Economy Nanotechnology products will be vastly overpriced compared to cost However, large sums of money are invested in R+D Will successfully compete and put many companies out of business Cheaper prices Better products

Risks Unfortunately Also Endless With the development of nanotechnology, evil individuals will no doubt use it for destruction. Link to additional risks

The future is not set in stone Benefits and drawbacks need to be discussed Some researchers believe technology as advanced as a replicator are possible

Ending Thoughts The development of nanotechnology is new and upcoming. There is much that still needs to be determined before developing products for society.

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