Learn how dimensionality shapes nanomaterial behavior. Explore and visualize a 1D type nanostructure using an Indigo® zinc oxide nanowire molecular model kit.
Nanomaterials are often described by their dimensionality, the number of directions in which electrons can move freely. This seemingly simple classification shapes how materials behave at the nanoscale: how they conduct electricity, absorb light, or interact with other molecules. Understanding these differences helps explain why ZnO nanowires conduct current so efficiently, why graphene is nearly transparent yet incredibly strong, and why quantum dots glow in vivid colors.
Zinc oxide (ZnO) nanowires are one of the most studied 1D nanostructures in materials science. This molecular model lets students and researchers visualize the wurtzite crystal lattice that gives ZnO its unique piezoelectric, semiconducting, and photocatalytic properties. It’s ideal for teaching band gap engineering, nanowire growth mechanisms, and energy harvesting device design at the nanoscale.
Indigo Instruments has maintained a substantial inventory of genuine Cochranes of Oxford (Orbit) parts for 30+ years (scroll down to see "Skeletal (Orbit/Minit) and are compatible with every molecular model kit we have sold since day 1. This level of quality may appear expensive but no parts support from other vendors costs even more.
Isotropic bonding in all directions; structural rigidity, high stability
Used to demonstrate crystal geometry and network porosity
Experimental Design / Classroom Activity
The Indigo® Orbit style ZnO Nanowire Model can be used to illustrate how dimensional confinement affects electronic and optical properties in semiconducting materials. Instructors can guide students through a comparative analysis of 0D, 1D, 2D, and 3D materials to explore how structure dictates function.
Charge Transport Simulation: Use the ZnO nanowire model to demonstrate electron movement along a single axis. Compare to a bulk ZnO crystal model to discuss the effect of restricted motion on conductivity and carrier mobility.
Piezoelectric Demonstration: Connect the concept of polar surfaces to mechanical stress. Students can calculate potential differences generated along the c-axis and predict how nanowire alignment affects device performance.
Photocatalysis and Surface Effects: Discuss how a high surface-to-volume ratio enhances reactivity. As an extension, compare ZnO nanowires to TiO2 nanoparticles in photocatalytic degradation of dyes or pollutants.
Band Gap Engineering Discussion: Encourage students to model how doping, nanowire diameter, or lattice strain influence the band gap and potential applications in optoelectronics.
These activities reinforce the relationship between atomic arrangement, electronic confinement, and real-world applications in nanoscale sensors, transistors, and piezoelectric devices.
Learning Outcomes / Key Features
Learning Outcome
Key Feature or Concept
Differentiate between 0D, 1D, 2D, and 3D materials
Orbit model highlights how electron motion changes with dimensional confinement
Relate nanostructure geometry to charge transport and optical properties
ZnO nanowires exhibit directional conductivity and strong UV photoconductivity
Understand piezoelectric and polar surface effects
Wurtzite crystal lattice reveals Zn2+–O2− alignment along the c-axis
Apply nanomaterial concepts to device design and energy conversion
Connect model structure to nanoscale sensors, flexible circuits, and photocatalysis
Develop inquiry-based laboratory or classroom experiments
Encourages visualization of atomic-level structure–function relationships
The image shows a simplified version of a zinc oxide (ZnO) "nanowire" model. We built it with only 3 subunits across to keep the cross section small without sacrificing strength. The model is 130mm across and 800mm long & uses 15mm bonds to get the highest aspect ratio.
There are no printed instructions for this model but we prepared starter versions showing one and two layers. The main thing to watch for is that no 2 atoms of the same color are adjacent & if you look down the "tube" you see 3 distinct channels.
Special thanks to Martin Plante of McMaster University, Hamilton, ON for his assistance in building this model.
See Also Related Structures
Graphene Sheet Model; explore 2D electron delocalization and planar conductivity.
