6. Quantum Dots

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Abstract

Quantum dots (QDs) are a unique type of nanocrystalline semiconductor whose electronic and optical properties are dependent on the size and shape of the dots. Diameters of these particles can range from about 2-10 nm, on the order of 10-50 atomic lengths6. The small size of the particle gives a high ratio of surface-to-volume, so their properties fall somewhere between that of individual molecules and bulk semiconductors Quantum dots can be single elements (such as silicon, germanium, etc.) or compounds (CdSe, CdS, etc.)6.