Catalyst nanoparticle shapes
In this activity, students use modelling clay to construct different shapes (sphere, cube, cylinder) and calculate surface area:volume ratios with the aim of trying to develop a more efficient shape.
Designer catalysts
John Watt, a PhD student at Victoria University of Wellington, describes how increasing the surface area of nanoparticles increases their performance as catalysts.
By the end of this activity, students should be able to:
understand the importance of the shape of catalysts when they are in the form of nanoparticles
explain what is meant by surface area
use mathematical formulae to calculate surface area:volume ratios
explain which shape is the most efficient.
Download the Word file for:
introduction/background notes
what you need
what to do
discussion questions
extension idea
student handout.
