Resources
Objectives
The toes of a gecko are divided into nanoscale hair-like structures. When a gecko places its foot on the wall and curls its toes, these nanoscale structures interact with the wall on the atomic level. The forces (van-der-waals forces) between the nano-structured hairs of the gecko foot and the atoms of the wall are strong enough to hold up the gecko. Scientists are working to make materials that use gecko-like nano-structures for adhesion.
Define biomimicry: Imitating nature’s best ideas to solve human problems
Recognize that gecko feet have structures small enough to be measured in nanometers, or billionths of a meter, that allow them to climb vertical surfaces as well as hang upside down on ceilings.
Understand that nanoscale hairs are able to interact with the atoms of the surface the gecko is climbing on.
Understand that scientists are researching man-made materials that mimic the properties of the gecko foot.
Credits
Developed for the NISE Network with funding from the National Science Foundation under Award Numbers 0532536 and 0940143. Any opinions, findings, and conclusions or recommendations expressed in this product are those of the authors and do not necessarily reflect the views of the Foundation.