Identifying the Accuracy of Various Approaches for Determining the Fraction of Surface Atoms in a Nanoparticle to Deepen Students’ Understanding of Size-Dependent Properties

Abstract

As the size of a nanoparticle is reduced, the fraction of surface atoms increases. It is interesting to note that various chemical and physical properties depend on the fraction of surface atoms. One of the most obvious questions that arise is how could one possibly estimate the fraction of surface atoms in a nanoparticle? Herein, we discuss various approaches for the same and attempt to figure out an accurate approach. We believe that the analysis presented here would benefit the undergraduate and graduate students who have taken nanomaterials courses, with a better understanding.