Define the term nanotechnology.

Discuss two concerns about its development and use.

(research/technology development at) 1–100 nm (range);

Award [1 max] for any one of:

creates/uses structures with novel properties (because of their small size) / OWTTE;

builds on ability to control/manipulate at atomic scale / OWTTE;

explosive / small size/large surface area means very fast reactions at possibly dangerous levels;

unknown health effects / immune system/allergy concerns;

industry not concerned about impact of product;

lack of public awareness about dangers;

nanoparticle waste products may require new methods of disposal;

nanoweapons more difficult to detect than conventional weapons (resulting in weapons of mass destruction);

possible toxicity (of small airborne particles);

Do not allow just “may cause environmental destruction”.

Accept other valid concerns.

Accept OWTTE throughout.

Both parts of question 12 were reasonably well answered, though a small minority of candidates either did not give the 1-100 nm range or failed to give correct units here. In (b) some vague answers such as “may cause environmental destruction” were cited, which did not score.

Both parts of question 12 were reasonably well answered, though a small minority of candidates either did not give the 1-100 nm range or failed to give correct units here. In (b) some vague answers such as “may cause environmental destruction” were cited, which did not score.