NUE: Nanotechnology in Physics and Chemistry at Kenyon College

Kenyon College, Gambier OH

Investigators

Abstract

This NUE award from the Divisions of Physics and Chemistry in the Directorate for Mathematical and Physical Sciences and the Directorate for Geosciences enables Kenyon College to introduce nanoscience concepts to both science and nonscience majors within the context of a liberal arts college. We will develop instructional modules for introductory physics and chemistry lectures and laboratories so that all students of these classes will receive training in nanoscience concepts. In addition, modules will be developed for more advanced physics and chemistry classes and seminar courses pertaining to nanoscience and nanotechnology so that nanoscience concepts will be integrated into courses from the first year through participation by students in research. Modules will also address non-science-majors classes. The modules will primarily make use of an atomic force microscope (AFM) and the development of a source of entangled photons. While the AFM will provide our students the opportunity for "hands-on" imaging and manipulation of matter at the nanoscale, the source of entangled photons will illustrate the principles of the next generation of information technology (i.e., quantum computation). By introducing these two key ideas in nanoscience and nanotechnology, we hope to encourage our undergraduate students to pursue careers in the revolutionary field of nanotechnology in the future. The proposal for this award was received in response to the Nanoscale Science and Engineering Education announcement, NSF 03-044, category NUE.