Nanotechnology encompasses any science dealing with nanoscale particles, while molecular nanotechnology (MNT) specifically refers to theories of nanoscale machines capable of building products from the atom up. MNT is still theoretical, but has potential benefits and dangers that are extensively researched.
The difference between nanotechnology and molecular nanotechnology (MNT) is that the former is now used to refer to any science dealing with nanoscale particles from 1 to 100 nanometers, whereas the latter refers specifically to theories of nanoscale machines capable to build products from the atom up, also called molecular manufacturing (MM).
A nanometer, which is one-millionth of a millimeter or one-billionth of a meter, is an incredibly small measure of length of just five or seven atoms. The general term “nanotechnology” deals with structures measured in nanometres. A bacterium is much larger in comparison. Fullerenes or carbon nanotubes, however, as discovered by Richard Smalley of Rice University, fall within the realm of nanotechnology.
The term “nanotechnology” has not always been used so broadly. It was coined by K. Eric Drexler in his 1986 book, Engines of Creation, to refer to his theories of molecular manufacturing, following visionary ideas presented 27 years earlier by famed physicist Richard Feynman. As the possibilities of molecular nanotechnology grew and enthusiasm grew in the scientific community (a situation that often leads to possible grants and other forms of funding), many researchers began to use the term for their own nanoscale efforts, not related to molecular manufacturing.
Compounding the possible confusion in the public sector, there are potential benefits as well as potential dangers associated with both nanotechnology and molecular manufacturing, albeit different ones. Hence, Drexler ultimately chose to further qualify his field of science to set it apart.
Another difference between the two branches is that nanotechnology is an established science as nanoparticles are already commercialized in products; though some critics say research into the possible dangers of nanoparticles hasn’t kept pace with marketing.
Molecular nanotechnology (MNT/MM), by contrast, is still theoretical. Once built, it is ready to bring with it a new technological revolution. Nanomedicine, a special branch of NTD, could even extend human lifespan by eradicating disease. MNT also has potential dangers and its pros and cons are extensively researched.
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