Guest Speaker - Nanotechnology at Oakton

Last class in chemistry, we had two guests speak to us through Google Hangout. The guest speakers were from Oakton Community College, and they described their jobs involving nanotechnology. Based on definition, nanotechnology is the manipulation of matter on an atomic, molecular, or supramolecular scale. According to the speakers, the nanotechnology career field is rapidly growing, for it plays a critical role in biology, chemistry, engineering, medicine, and physics.

Image of our group's paper

On the first day of chemistry, we were asked to pull an infinitesimal piece of paper off. Each group placed their sample on a microscope slide. The slides were then sent to Oakton, where the guest speakers scaled which group's piece was the smallest. When we chatted with them through Google Hangout, one of the things they discussed was how they used their technology to observe the paper. Below is a picture of our group's piece. There is a scale included at the bottom of the image, displaying how large the piece actually is.

Guest Teacher - Prosthetic Limbs

Today we had the GBS librarian Mrs. May come in to show us her prosthetic leg. Eight years ago, Mrs. May hurt her angle while hiking. The injury caused a staff infection, which eventually led to the amputation of her left leg.  Within the time period between then and now, she has made many adjustments in her life that allow her to perform daily tasks.

Mrs. May describing her story

The leg is made of various materials ranging from titanium to carbon. Although the leg works well for her, versions of prosthetics are constantly being put out for use.

Ms. May's prosthetic leg