Manipulate Light Like No Other Human Can With Photonic Crystals & Opal
February 2nd, 2010 // 4:41 am @ admin
It has long been theorized that the hidden mysteries found in gemstone opal could ultimately unlock a revolution in the computer chip world known as quantum computing. Recently a new chemistry project developed by NanoScienceKits.org has been introduced in a simple format that can be conducted by both scientists and novices alike. But first, we have to get back to opal. Opal is constructed in nature by the assembly of highly ordered silica nanoparticles. These particles, when fully assembled, have the ability of manipulating light in a manner that is found in few other creations on earth. It is this ability to manipulate that has long caught the eye of many a scientist.
The theory, explained in simple terms, is that by creating an inverse opal in a certain pattern one could create a computer chip that could use light as a vehicle to transfer information. This would cause information to be transferred exponentially faster than the worlds current computer chips have the ability to. The truth is, we may still be a long way off from bringing this idea out of the theoretical and into mass production. But make no mistake; the science community is making progress. One of the major roadblocks to turning this theory into a reality has been supply of the highly uniform silica needed to allow for the same self-assembly that occurs in opal.
Recently however, a new company has emerged in the silica nanoparticles business that has renewed the enthusiasm of scientists in this field. One of the first products to be developed with these particles is a kit that allows one conduct a science experiment that is relates to the self assembly needed to make one of these theoretical quantum computing chips.
The science kit allows the participant to watch a photonic crystal, or opal, grow in a test tube over a few of weeks time. After the opal has fully assembled itself, a brilliant play of light dances from the test tube as if were a magic crystal. This chemistry project allows for a rare glimpse into what may be transformational technology of the future.
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Category : Blog