Chemistry Nobel Prize 2023
- The 2023 Nobel Prize in Chemistry has been awarded to a group of scientists who have made significant contributions in the field of creating ‘artificial atoms’. The discovery and synthesis of quantum dots were attributed to the contributions of Moungi G. Bawendi, Louis E. Brus, and Alexei I. Ekimov.
- In the year 1981, Alexei Ekimov, who was employed in the Soviet Union at the time, initially achieved the synthesis of quantum dots that were immobilised within a glass matrix. In the United States, Louis Brus successfully synthesised quantum dots in a solution and subsequently investigated their quantum-physical properties, marking a significant milestone two years later. In 1993, Moungi Bawendi successfully developed a method for producing high-quality quantum dots that was both straightforward and dependable. In recognition of their significant accomplishments, they have been awarded the prestigious Nobel Prize.
Gaining insight into quantum dots:
- When atoms are confined within a vessel at a low density, they exhibit specific behavioural characteristics. However, when they are densely packed together, with limited freedom of movement, a distinct phenomenon emerges.
- Quantum dots refer to diminutive crystals with dimensions typically on the order of a few nanometres. Each quantum dot is composed of a very small number of atoms, often in the range of a few thousand, in contrast to the vast number of atoms present in a single droplet of water, which can reach the order of a sextillion. Due to the high density of atoms within the dot, the proximity of their electrons is significantly reduced.
- Within this particular context, the principles governing quantum mechanics serve as the framework for elucidating the dynamics shown by quantum dots, to the extent that a quantum dot can effectively emulate the characteristics and actions of an atom.
- The dots possess an additional renowned characteristic. When light is incident onto a quantum dot, it undergoes absorption and subsequent re-emission at a distinct frequency or colour, contingent upon the dot’s size. The emission of light with greater frequency (bluer) is observed from smaller dots, while the emission of light with lower frequency (less blue) is observed from larger dots. In the context of quantum dots, it is observed that the response of a quantum dot composed of a certain substance differs from that of a smaller quantum dot composed of the same material.
- Quantum dots have been widely utilised in several domains such as transistors, lasers, medical imaging, and quantum computing due to a multitude of compelling factors.
- Display systems: The utilisation of quantum dots enhances the vibrancy and luminosity of computer monitors and TV panels. Additionally, they have the capability to emit light in various hues and intensities.
- The utilisation of quantum dots as qubits, or quantum bits, in the field of quantum computing is facilitated by their inherent quantum mechanical characteristics.
- Quantum dots are employed in the context of tailored medication delivery for specific cancer therapies within the broader field of precision medicine. Furthermore, these technologies possess wider-ranging implications in the field of nanomedicine.
- Diagnostic tools, such as those utilised in imaging technologies like MRI scans, can be employed for medical purposes. Quantum dots of minuscule dimensions can also serve the purpose of mapping biological tissues at a highly reduced scale.
- The utilisation of quantum dots as security marks on banknotes and papers serves as an effective measure in combating counterfeiting activities.
- The utilisation of quantum dots in solar panels enhances their efficacy in the absorption and conversion of sunlight into electrical energy.
In conclusion:
- Comprehending the underlying factors governing the activity of quantum dots necessitates a specialist understanding of quantum mechanics; nonetheless, it is important to note that their behaviour is not only dictated by the principles of quantum physics. The awarding of the Nobel Prize in 2023 will serve as a catalyst for further investigation and exploration within the captivating realm of chemistry.
