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Just a few weeks ago, one of my current student under my Chemistry Coaching wings suddenly asked me to explain more about Nanotechnology when we came across a question on Fullerene (commonly known as BuckyBall) which signifies the entrance into the area of Nanotechnology. This has intrigued me to share more with my avid readers (mostly students).

The strength of small is huge, or that is what one ought to say about the new revolution called Nanotechnology. And why not! Nanotechnology, a new science which deals with atoms a few nanometres large, has the potential to make scientific strides across industries and impact mankind in a positive way. In the Information Technology sector, it holds the key to creating smaller, more efficient microchips that will make computers faster and smash existing silicon boundaries. This certainly applies to all the current fashion towards slimmer and smaller MP3 players and cellphones. Nanotechnology has also ventured into textiles with smart materials like special surface coatings and cosmetics with efficient durable action.However, healthcare is set to be one of the biggest beneficiaries of this nanotech revolution. In what ways is this technology capable of changing the face of healthcare? Tools and techniques devised by nanotechnology will make medical procedures simpler, quicker, more accurate, and reduce side effects. Diseases will be diagnosed earlier, and in-treatment monitoring will ensure closed-loop control of therapeuticsAccording to several reports, it seems that smart drug dosage involves less frequent dosing and better control of therapeutic indices. Doctors will have a larger arsenal of devices, tools and techniques at their disposal to customise their treatment to individual patients. And above all, costs would be contained, because nanotechnology does not necessarily mean mega-costs. More importantly, aspects of nanotechnology have the potential to permeate lifestyles so as to raise the living standards for mankind. This would happen through pure water, low-cost energy, food processing, improved agricultural practices, safer workplaces and more comfortable homes.

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