Activity 01 - Questions: What is nanotechnology?

1. What does the prefix "nano-" signify in nanotechnology?

a) Very large
b) Very small
c) Medium-sized
d) None of the above

2. How small is a nanometer in comparison to a meter?

a) One-millionth
b) One-billionth
c) One-thousandth
d) One-hundredth

3. Which of the following is an example of nanotechnology's impact on materials

properties?

a) Making materials softer

b) Increasing material weight
c) Decreasing material durability
d) Strengthening materials and reducing weight

4. What is the predicted increase in energy output of solar panels by the year 2020 due to
nanotechnology?

a) 1.5 times
b) 2 to 3 times
c) 5 times
d) No significant increase

5. How does the prefix "nano-" contribute to the understanding of nanotechnology?

The prefix "nano-" means very small. In science and math, nano- is used to describe
one-billionth the size of something. For example, a nanosecond is one- billionth the time of a
second. (Nano = 10 ^ -9)

6. Explain the significance of working at the nanoscale in nanotechnology.

Nanotechnology is the science of working with atoms and molecules at the nanoscale to build
devices that are extremely small.

7. In what ways can nanotechnology impact the field of medicine?

In medicine, scientists are finding ways to change nanoparticles the size of molecules so that
they only treat damaged or diseased cells in the body. This would improve treatments like
chemotherapy because healthy cells would not be hurt during treatment.

8. Discuss the potential benefits of using nanotechnology in improving battery

technology.

In terms of electronics, batteries are being developed using nanomaterials that are able to stay
good for longer and be charged much faster than current batteries.

9. How can nanotechnology contribute to addressing climate change?

In terms of the environment, there are many ways nanotechnology is working to help find
solutions to climate change. One example includes using nanoscale membranes or screens to
separate carbon dioxide from other gases so it can be stored and removed from the
environment.

10. Describe a real-life application of nanotechnology in improving material strength.

For example, carbon in the form of graphite, like pencil lead, is soft and malleable. However, by
changing it at the nanoscale, it can be made stronger than steel and six times lighter.

11. What role does nanotechnology play in enhancing the efficiency of solar panels?

Another is the use of nanotechnology in the production of solar panels. It is predicted by the
year 2020, nanotechnology will be able to increase the output of energy of solar panels by two
to three times by using nanomaterials in place of current solar cells.

12. How does nanotechnology enable the creation of more targeted medical treatments?

Scientists are finding ways to change nanoparticles the size of molecules so that they only treat
damaged or diseased cells in the body. This would improve treatments like chemotherapy
because healthy cells would not be hurt during treatment. Besides, nanotechnology enables
precise drug delivery by targeting specific cells or tissues, reducing side effects and enhancing
treatment efficacy.

13. Discuss the ethical considerations surrounding the use of nanotechnology in various
fields.

The ethical complications of nanotechnology include potential health risks, as nanoparticles may
interact with human cells in unpredictable ways, leading to unknown long-term effects.
Environmental concerns arise since nanomaterials could accumulate in ecosystems, disrupting
biological processes. Social inequity is another issue, as advanced nanotechnology might only
be accessible to wealthy nations or individuals, widening the gap between rich and poor.
Additionally, the dual-use nature of nanotech means it could be applied for both beneficial and
harmful purposes, including military applications. These challenges highlight the need for strict
regulation and responsible development.

14. What are some challenges in the widespread adoption of nanotechnology?

The main challenges in the adoption of nanotechnology are: high R&D costs, regulatory
barriers, scalability difficulties, lack of standardization, ethical concerns, low public acceptance,
environmental risks, and patent disputes. Overcoming these challenges requires collaboration
between science, industry, and government.

Activity 02 - Breaking News: Nanotechnology

Activity 03 - Passport to English: Nanotechnology

Writing
Write your answer to one of the ethical questions in the second to the last paragraph of the
reading.

1. Should we build objects including life forms atom by atom for our purposes?​

In the future, nanotechnology may allow the construction of objects atom by atom,
including living organisms. This would bring benefits such as curing diseases and creating
new materials. However, it also raises ethical concerns and possible unforeseen
consequences. Therefore, building objects and living beings in this way can be
advantageous, but it would require strict control to avoid risks.​

2. How would you feel about having mechanical parts in your body?​

According to the text, technology may evolve to create mechanical parts that replace
human organs or limbs. Some people may accept this positively, especially if it improves
quality of life, cures diseases, or enhances physical abilities. However, others may feel
uncomfortable with the idea of modifying their bodies in this way, fearing the loss of
human identity or possible issues with dependency on technology.​

3. What would be the motivation to work if we could have machines produce

everything (Would we even want to work)?​

The text suggests that if machines could produce everything, people might no longer
need to work to survive. This could lead to a society where work becomes optional and
individuals dedicate themselves to creative, intellectual, or leisure activities. However,
some people may continue working for pleasure, the desire to contribute to society, or to
feel useful.

Activity 04 - Worksheet: Nanotechnology and Medicine

Part 1: speaking

Discuss questions 1–3 with your partner or group.

1.​ What do you know about nanotechnology?

Nanotechnology is a field of science and engineering that involves manipulating materials at the
atomic and molecular levels, typically at a scale of less than 100 nanometers. It has applications
in various fields, including medicine, electronics, and materials science. Nanotechnology allows
for the creation of stronger, lighter, and more efficient materials and devices, as well as
advancements in computing and drug delivery.

2.​ How can nanotechnology be used in the medical field?

Nanotechnology has many applications in medicine, such as targeted drug delivery, where
nanoparticles transport medicine directly to diseased cells, reducing side effects. It is also used
in diagnostics, improving early disease detection through nanosensors and imaging techniques.
Additionally, nanotechnology plays a role in regenerative medicine, helping to develop artificial
tissues and even repairing damaged cells at a microscopic level.

3.​ What does the prefix nano- mean?

The prefix nano- comes from the Greek word nanos, meaning "dwarf." In scientific terms, it
refers to something extremely small, specifically one billionth (1/1,000,000,000) of a meter. It is
used to describe measurements at the nanometer scale, which is the level of atoms and
molecules.

Part 2: vocabulary

A. You’re going to read an article about nanomaterials. Before you read, look at the
words and practise saying them. The stressed syllables are in bold.

●​ biomimetic (OK)
●​ bioactive agent (OK)
●​ craniofacial (OK)
●​ nanofiber (OK)
●​ nanomaterial (OK)
●​ nanoparticle (OK)
●​ nanosheet (OK)
●​ tissue engineering (OK)

B. Complete the definitions using words from A.

1. Nanomaterial : material which is made of extremely tiny particles

2. Tissue engineering : production of new tissues using biomedical engineering
3. Nano Particle : particles of matter that is so small that it cannot be seen by the
naked eye
4. Bioactive agent : substance that can influence how an organism, cell or tissue
works
5. Biomimetic : describes a synthetic method to copy a biological process
6. Nanofiber : length of extremely small particles which has very strong
properties
7. Nanosheet : layered substance made up of extremely small particles
8. Craniofacial : describes the head and neck including the skull, jaws, teeth
and face.

Part 3: reading

A. Answer the questions.

1. What is the text about?​

The text discusses the application of nanomaterials in tissue engineering to repair and
regenerate craniofacial and dental tissues damaged by trauma, tumors, or other diseases.​
2. Why might tissue engineering be useful for craniofacial injuries or defects?​

Tissue engineering provides a promising approach for treating craniofacial defects, as it allows
for the regeneration of specific tissues, restoring both function and aesthetics to the affected
areas.​

3. What sort of regeneration do nanoparticles provide a structure for?​

Nanoparticles provide a structure for the regeneration of both bone and soft tissues, serving as
scaffolds that support cell growth and new tissue formation.​

4. Nanofibers and nanoparticles make the tissue scaffold stronger, so they are useful for
______________ and ______________.​

Nanofibers and nanoparticles reinforce the tissue scaffold, making them useful for improving
the mechanical strength and bioactivity of materials used in tissue regeneration.​

5. What secondary function do nanofibers and nanoparticles perform?​

In addition to strengthening scaffolds, nanofibers and nanoparticles can release growth factors
or therapeutic agents, promoting cell differentiation and accelerating the regeneration process.​

6. Are nanomaterials ready for use?​

Although nanomaterials show great potential in craniofacial and dental tissue engineering,
further research is needed to assess their safety, effectiveness, and clinical viability before they
can be widely adopted in medical practice.

B. What do you know about these examples of nanotechnology? Discuss your ideas.

Traditional silicon transistors are reaching their limits, but nanotechnology allows for the
development of transistors at the atomic or molecular scale, making devices faster and more
energy-efficient. Quantum dots, nanowires, and carbon-based materials are being used to
improve the performance of circuits and even enable flexible, wearable electronics.

The idea of a nanobrain involves using nanotechnology to enhance computing and

neurological functions. Researchers are developing neuromorphic computing systems that
mimic how the human brain processes information, making artificial intelligence more efficient.
Nanotechnology is also helping in medicine by creating nanoparticles that deliver drugs directly
to brain cells, improving treatments for conditions like Alzheimer's and Parkinson’s.
Brain-computer interfaces are another exciting area, where nanoscale sensors can connect the
brain to external devices, allowing for new possibilities in communication and control.

Graphene, a one-atom-thick layer of carbon, is one of the most exciting nanomaterials

discovered. It has incredible electrical, thermal, and mechanical properties, making it useful in
various industries. In electronics, graphene-based transistors can be much faster than
traditional silicon ones. It is also being used in energy storage, where it enhances the efficiency
of batteries and supercapacitors, leading to longer battery life and faster charging. In medicine,
graphene-based biosensors can detect diseases at an early stage, and its nanostructures are
being explored for better drug delivery systems.

Activity 05 - Worksheet: Nanotechnologies

1. In the first paragraph, the writer says that the nano-spider

a) is much thicker than a human hair.

b) cannot be seen under a microscope.
c) was invented by an individual scientist.
d) is an extremely small machine.

2. Why does the writer suggest nano-spiders can be classified as robots?

a) because they have the features of a robot.

b) because they can walk.
c) because they are built with computer chips.
d) because they are microscopic devices.

3. What does 'this' refer to in 1. 30?

a) the number of steps DNA walkers can manage.

b) the walking distance a DNA walker can do.
c) the length of the DNA walkers.
d) the time each step takes for a DNA walker.

4. What do we learn about nano-spiders in the fifth paragraph?

a) They could protect our bodies from disease in future.

b) They are already being used to fight cancer.
c) They have been used for various medical purposes in the past.
d) They have not actually been invented yet.

5. What does the writer say about arguments against the use of nanotechnology?

a) People are concerned that it is used to build computer parts.

b) People are concerned that nano-products are not tested before they are sold.
c) There are concerns about whether the industry has strict rules for safety.
d) There are no concerns about nanotechnology in medicine.

6. All in all, the writer presents nanobots as devices which

a) we should be afraid of.
b) have already been in use for many years.
c) may be very useful in the future.
d) are mainly useful in industry.

TASK: THINK!!! Do you think nanabots will ever replace humans in fields like medicine?
Why? Why not? (5-7 sentences)

Nanobots will likely enhance, but not completely replace, humans in medicine. They can
perform precise tasks like targeted drug delivery, clearing blockages, or even repairing tissues
at the cellular level. However, human doctors bring critical thinking, empathy, and ethical
decision-making, which machines cannot fully replicate. While AI and nanotechnology can
assist in diagnostics and surgery, complex cases requiring judgment and adaptability still need
human oversight. Instead of replacing doctors, nanobots will serve as powerful tools that
improve medical efficiency and patient outcomes.

Activity 06 - Questions: Can the Earth be saved by turning CO2 to

stone?
1. What is the primary focus of the CarbFix project?

a) Extracting natural gas

b) Turning CO2 into stone

c) Recycling plastic waste

d) Producing renewable energy

2. Where did the CarbFix project conduct its initial testing?

a) Brazil

b) Oman

c) Iceland

d) South Africa

3. What percentage of the injected CO2 was successfully mineralized according to the
CarbFix project report?

a) Between 80 and 85 percent

b) Between 90 and 95 percent

c) Between 95 and 98 percent

d) Between 99 and 100 percent

4. What is one potential advantage of capturing CO2 near volcanic rock and water?

a) Lower cost of transportation

b) Faster mineralization process

c) Greater efficiency in capturing CO2

d) Reduced environmental impact

5. Which country has basalt rock formations that could potentially store all human CO2
emissions for hundreds of years?

a) Brazil

b) Iceland

c) Oman

d) South Africa

6. Explain the process of turning CO2 into stone as described in the CarbFix project.

The CarbFix project captures CO₂ emissions, dissolves them in water, and injects the solution
into underground basalt rock formations. The CO₂ reacts with the minerals in basalt, triggering a
natural process called mineralization. Over a period of about two years, the CO₂ turns into solid
carbonate minerals, effectively locking it away as stone.

7. What role do basalt rock formations play in the carbon capture process?

Basalt rocks are rich in calcium, magnesium, and iron, which are essential for the mineralization
of CO₂. When CO₂-infused water is injected into these formations, the chemical reaction
between CO₂ and the minerals forms stable carbonate minerals, ensuring permanent carbon
storage.

8. How does the CarbFix project contribute to addressing climate change?

CarbFix provides a long-term, secure method of removing CO₂ from the atmosphere, preventing
it from contributing to global warming. By mineralizing CO₂, it eliminates the risk of leaks that
other storage methods, like underground reservoirs, may face. The project also serves as a
model for large-scale carbon sequestration.

9. Discuss the potential benefits and challenges of implementing carbon capture and
storage technologies.

The benefits include reducing CO₂ levels in the atmosphere, mitigating climate change, and
potentially enabling industries to continue operating with lower carbon footprints. However,
challenges include high costs, the need for suitable geological formations, energy requirements
for CO₂ capture and injection, and public acceptance of underground storage.

10. Why is capturing CO2 from the air considered a futuristic strategy?

Capturing CO₂ from the air is seen as futuristic because the technology is still in early
development, and it requires significant energy and investment. Unlike capturing CO₂ from
industrial sources, direct air capture deals with much lower CO₂ concentrations, making the
process less efficient and more expensive. However, it could become essential for achieving
net-zero emissions.

11. How does the cost of capturing CO2 compare between capturing it from the air and
capturing it from power plants?

Capturing CO₂ from power plants is significantly cheaper because the CO₂ concentration in flue
gases is much higher than in the atmosphere. Direct air capture costs can range from $100 to
$600 per ton of CO₂, while capturing it from industrial sources typically costs between $40 and
$100 per ton.

12. Describe the potential environmental impact of mineralizing CO2 into stone.

The process has a positive environmental impact since it provides a permanent solution to CO₂
storage with minimal risk of leakage. However, concerns include the energy required for CO₂
capture and injection, the water needed to dissolve CO₂, and possible land disturbances from
drilling operations.

13. What are some limitations or drawbacks of the CarbFix project's approach?

The main limitations include the need for suitable basalt formations, high costs associated with
CO₂ capture and injection, and the large volumes of water required for the process. Additionally,
scaling up the technology to a global level may be challenging.

14. How might the success of the CarbFix project influence global efforts to combat
climate change?

If proven effective and economically viable, CarbFix could serve as a blueprint for other
countries looking to implement carbon capture and storage. It could also encourage investment
in similar technologies, helping to reduce atmospheric CO₂ levels on a larger scale.

15. Discuss the importance of incentives in encouraging the implementation of carbon

capture and storage technologies.

Financial incentives, such as government subsidies, tax credits, and carbon pricing, are crucial
for making carbon capture and storage economically viable. Without incentives, the high costs
of implementing these technologies may deter industries from adopting them. Incentives can
also drive innovation and investment in research, leading to more efficient and affordable carbon
capture solutions.