Creating Patterns with Atoms: Can We Do It?

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    Atoms Patterns
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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around the feasibility of manipulating atoms into specific patterns and the implications of such manipulation, including the creation of atomic layers or "blankets." The scope includes theoretical and experimental aspects of atomic arrangement and bonding.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory
  • Technical explanation
  • Debate/contested

Main Points Raised

  • Some participants assert that it is possible to move atoms into desired patterns, referencing past achievements in atomic manipulation.
  • Questions arise about the ability to create bonds between atoms while maintaining a specific arrangement, with some participants expressing confusion over the term "order."
  • There is a suggestion that a "blanket of atoms" refers to graphene, with a participant indicating that carbon atoms can form such a structure.
  • Some participants express skepticism about the possibility of creating a single-layer blanket of atoms with elements other than carbon, suggesting that carbon is the most viable option.
  • There is speculation about the potential for creating a single layer of gold, but doubts are raised regarding its stability in an unsupported form.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants generally agree that carbon can form a stable single-layer structure, but there is disagreement and uncertainty regarding the capabilities of other elements to do the same. The discussion remains unresolved regarding the broader implications of atomic manipulation and bonding.

Contextual Notes

Limitations include the dependence on chemical properties and bonding rules, as well as the ambiguity in the terminology used by participants, which may affect the clarity of the discussion.

Who May Find This Useful

Individuals interested in atomic physics, materials science, and nanotechnology may find this discussion relevant.

Kienken333
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Can we move atoms into any pattern we want?
Thanks!
 
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SO can we create bonds between them while keeping it in the same order?
 
Kienken333 said:
SO can we create bonds between them while keeping it in the same order?

I have no idea what you are asking. What "order"?

Zz.
 
can we create a blanket of atoms?
 
Kienken333 said:
can we create a blanket of atoms?

You should learn to be a bit more verbose in your question, because I'm having to interpret what I think you're asking. So if you are going to continue to be this terse, this will be my last response to this thread.

Blanket of atoms = graphene.

Zz.
 
Kienken333 said:
Can we move atoms into any pattern we want?
Thanks!

We are able to move atoms around individually under some circumstances. But we cannot break existing rules of chemistry. Just because we put a hydrogen atom next to a calcium atom does not mean they will stick.

Blanket of atoms = graphene.
A blanket of carbon atoms is graphene.

We could position atoms in a flat layer but, unless they have an affinity for each other (like carbon does), they won't stay.
 
I am doubting any other atom can be laid out as a single layer "blanket" other than carbon. If you constrain to a single unsupported layer, I think carbon is practically automatic.
 
Dr Lots-o'watts said:
I am doubting any other atom can be laid out as a single layer "blanket" other than carbon. If you constrain to a single unsupported layer, I think carbon is practically automatic.
Gold?

It may be possible to get a single layer of gold, but you're right, I doubt it'd be unsupported.
 
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