The researchers at the University of Alberta and the National Institute of Nanotechnology have cracked a problem. Quantum dots can be used to ‘herd’ or control electrons but up until now the dots could only be used effectively at ultra low temperatures consequently practical applications have lagged.

A research team headed by Robert A. Wolkow has created a single atom quantum dot that be used at room temperature. The smallest dot is one silicon atom and measures less than 1 nanometre in diameter. Generally quantum dots, sometimes called artificial atoms, have ranged from 2 – 10 nanometres in diameter.

The news release doesn’t go into much detail other than to note “[The] property enables numerous revolutionary schemes for electronic devices.”  For the news release go here and if you’re interested in both the press release and a video animation of a single quantum dot, go here.