Exploring the Nanoworld with LEGO Bricks: Structure-Property Relationships at the Nanoscale

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In this activity (pages 32-41), learners learn how the atomic and molecular arrangement of matter are related to physical properties. This activity also introduces materials at the cutting edge of nanoscale science and technology, where the size of individual solid particles of material approaches molecular dimensions. Learners learn about concepts like polymer cross-linking, giant magnetoresistance, and plasmon resonance. Additional instructions are provided in Appendices 3.2 and 3.6.

Quick Guide

Preparation Time:
Under 5 minutes
Learning Time:
45 to 60 minutes
Estimated Materials Cost:
$5 - $10 per group of students
Age Range:
Ages 14 - adult
Resource Types:
Activity, Model
Language:
English

Materials List (per group of students)

  • LEGO blocks of different sizes and colors

Keywords

Subjects

  • Engineering and Technology
    • Engineering
      • Metallurgy and Materials Engineering
      • Nanotechnology
  • Physical Sciences
    • Electricity and Magnetism
      • Electromagnetic Fields
    • Chemistry
      • Chemical Bonding
    • Vibration and Waves
    • States of Matter
      • Solids
    • Structure and Properties of Matter
      • Atomic Structure

Informal Categories

  • Model Building
  • Toys

Audience

To use this activity, learners need to:

  • see
  • see color
  • touch

Learning styles supported:

  • Involves hands-on or lab activities

Other

This resource is part of:

Access Rights:

  • Free access

By:

Rights:

Funding Sources:

  • National Science Foundation
  • University of Wisconsin-Madison
  • LEGO Dacta