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 ISBN: 0-8247-0254-9
This book is printed on acid-free paper.
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 Preface
Tools shape how we think; when the only tool you have is an axe, everything resembles a
tree or a log. The rapid advances in instrumentation in the last decade, which allow us to
measure and manipulate individual molecules and structures on the nanoscale, have caused
a paradigm shift in the way we view molecular behavior and surfaces. The microscopic de-
tails underlying interfacial phenomena have customarily been inferred from in situ mea-
surements of macroscopic quantities. Now we can see and “finger” physical and chemical
processes at interfaces.
The reviews collected in this book convey some of the themes recurrent in nano-col-
loid science: self-assembly, construction of supramolecular architecture, nanoconfinement
and compartmentalization, measurement and control of interfacial forces, novel synthetic
materials, and computer simulation. They also reveal the interaction of a spectrum of dis-
ciplines in which physics, chemistry, biology, and materials science intersect. Not only is
the vast range of industrial and technological applications depicted, but it is also shown
how this new way of thinking has generated exciting developments in fundamental science.
Some of the chapters also skirt the frontiers, where there are still unanswered questions.
The book should be of value to scientific readers who wish to become acquainted
with the field as well as to experienced researchers in the many areas, both basic and tech-
nological, of nanoscience.
The lengthy maturation of a multiauthored book of this nature is subject to life’s con-
tingencies. Hopefully, its structure is sound and has survived the bumps of “outrageous for-
tune.” I wish to thank all the contributors for their courage in writing. It is their work and
commitment that have made this book possible.
Morton Rosoff
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