Quantum dots: the Nobel Prize in Chemistry 2023

 What are quantum dots?

Quantum dots are very small crystals that can glow in different colors when they are exposed to light. They are made of materials called semiconductors, which can conduct electricity under certain conditions. Quantum dots are special because they behave like single atoms, even though they are made of many atoms. This means that they can be controlled by changing their size or shape.

Who won the Nobel Prize for quantum dots?

Three chemists won the Nobel Prize for quantum dots in 2023. They are:

• Moungi Bawendi, who works at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology in the United States. He developed a way to make quantum dots of different sizes and colors by using chemical reactions.
• Louis Brus, who works at Columbia University in the United States. He discovered quantum dots in a liquid solution and explained how their size affects their properties.
• Alexei Ekimov, who works at Nanocrystals Technology Inc. in the United States. He was the first to observe quantum dots in a solid material and showed how they can emit light.

Why are quantum dots important?

Quantum dots have many applications in science and technology. They can be used to make brighter and more colorful displays for TVs, computers, and smartphones. They can also be used to create images of living cells and tissues, which can help doctors diagnose diseases and monitor treatments. Quantum dots can also be used to improve solar cells, lasers, sensors, and other devices that use light and electricity.

How did the Nobel Prize winners find out?

The Nobel Prize winners found out about their award through a phone call from the Nobel Committee. However, their names were leaked before the official announcement by mistake. A press release was accidentally sent to some media outlets in Sweden. Bawendi said he was sleeping when he got the call and did not know about the leak.