Making quantum leaps with quantum dots

Quantum dots are nano-size crystals that emit light; the wavelength they emit depends on the size of the crystal.

Quantum dots are composed of various materials such as lead sulfide, Zinc sulfide, cadmium selenide, and indium phosphide.

Quantum dots are useful because, depending on their size and composition they emit particular wavelength or color of light after an outside source such as the ultra violet light, excites the electron in them. Quantum dot produces light in a way similar to atoms. The ability to tailor the color of light emitted by a group of quantum dots is very useful in medical diagnostics

The rules that describe electron orbital (also called energy levels) and dictate that electrons are only allowed to be in certain energy levels within an atom are called quantum mechanics. Because electrons in this nano size crystals behave in a similar way they are called quantum dots.