Exercise 7, page 135.0:00
Nanotechnology, the next big thing.0:11
Nanotechnology, the technology of materials of microscopic size, is seen as controversial by many.0:21
This article looks at some of the benefits and potential dangers.0:28
Imagine a world in which kitchens clean themselves, tidy brushes clean up pollutants in water, and minute robots move through the body, seeking out and destroying cancerous tissue.0:32
If all this sounds like science fiction, you should think again, because it is a world that may not be far off0:42
in this new branch of technology.0:49
These ideas are only some of the possible applications of scientific research.0:51
Scientists even hope to develop materials that will allow machines to repair themselves in much the same way that the human body does, which would be an incredible development.0:56
Although the idea of using microscopic robots to fight disease is still futuristic, nanotechnology is already being used by doctors.1:05
For example, magnetic nanoparticles have been given to patients suffering from certain cancers.1:13
These tiny metal balls concentrate in the body's unhealthy tissues, giving doctors a useful tool which they can use to track the spread of the disease.1:18
Unfortunately, it is not all good news.1:27
People are already expressing concerns that nanotechnology may be difficult to control.1:30
They fear the world could rapidly be reduced to gray dust as the result of some disaster involving this new technology.1:35
Nanoparticles are so small that they are readily taken up by the body.1:42
Normally, the skin acts as a natural barrier, which prevents invasion by foreign bodies.1:46
However, nanoparticles are able to cross biological membranes and penetrate tissues and organs.1:51
Indeed, nanoparticles may cause DNA mutation and the destruction of cells.1:57
Nevertheless, nanomaterials can actively benefit the environment and help in the fight against global warming.2:02
They can also be used to improve the efficiency of traditional materials.2:08
For example, a nanoparticle is being added to engines in buses in Britain, which will improve their fuel efficiency.2:11
To conclude, then, as with most advances in technology, the message must be proceed with extreme caution.2:18
Клик по слову — перевод и «+ в мои слова» (в любом режиме). Клик по строке или таймкоду — перейти к этому месту записи.