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Friday, 18th February 2005 (4123 views)

Scientists are using computer simulations and real-world experiments to help them discover more information on gold and its ability as a catalyst.<br/><br/>This new practice is becoming vital as scientists aim to look further into scientific features that are measured on a nanoscale, according to Innovations Report.<br/> <br/>US scientist, Uzi Landman, explained to scientists at the annual meeting of the American Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS): "Small is different. We cannot use the way physical systems behave on the large scale to predict what will happen when we go to levels only a few atoms in size. <br/><br/>"In this size regime, electrons transport electricity in a different way, crystallites have different mechanical properties and gold nanowires have strength twenty times larger than a big bar of gold, and inert metals may exhibit remarkable catalytic activity."<br/><br/>Mr Landman explained that by using the rules of physics they can create model environments and discover new phenomenon through high level computer based simulations.<br/><br/>As computers become more powerful they are also getting more capable to conduct more detailed explorations for the world of science, allowing faster calculations and clearer images.<img src="http://directnews.dehavilland.co.uk/dn.gif?feedid=196&itemid=7831969"/>

 

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