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Date May 2010 Marks available 1 Reference code 10M.3.sl.TZ2.C1
Level SL Paper 3 Time zone TZ2
Command term State Question number C1 Adapted from N/A

Question

Nanotechnology creates and uses structures that have novel properties because of their size.

State the size range of structures which are involved in nanotechnology.

[1]
a.

Discuss two implications of nanotechnology.

[2]
c.

Markscheme

1 nm to 100 nm;

a.

reference to effect on human health (e.g. unknown, immune system may not cope, unsatisfactory toxicity regulations);

reference to effect on employment (e.g. increased job opportunities, adverse effect on traditional industries);

reference to effect on quality of life (e.g. medical advances, faster computers, improved performance of electronic equipment);

reference to public opinion (e.g. need to improve information, encourage discussion, seek approval);

reference to nanotechnology being developed in wealthier nations hence increasing the divide between different nations;

c.

Examiners report

As a relatively new topic, nanotechnology still seems to present a significant challenge to the small proportion of candidates studying Option C and whilst many knew the scale upon which it operated and a few could gain credit for implications, usually related to health concerns, hardly any could distinguish between physical and chemical techniques.

a.

As a relatively new topic, nanotechnology still seems to present a significant challenge to the small proportion of candidates studying Option C and whilst many knew the scale upon which it operated and a few could gain credit for implications, usually related to health concerns, hardly any could distinguish between physical and chemical techniques.

c.

Syllabus sections

Options » A: Materials » A.6 Nanotechnology
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