Atoms: size, scale and nanoscience | 14-16 years

An abstract 3D rendered model of an atom, showing the nucleus of protons and neutrons with electrons orbiting around it

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Explore the scale and size of atoms and their relation to elements, introducing students to nanoscience in this lesson plan with activities for 14–16 year olds.

In this activity, students are invited to imagine the unimaginable – how small an atom is – and are introduced to the concept of nanoscience. They begin with a thought experiment about size, leading to the idea that atoms are extraordinarily small, but they do exist.

Consolidating their understanding of how elements relate to atoms, students reflect on the sizes of atoms found in different elements.

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