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NOVA scienceNOW: Diamond Factory
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Program Overview
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Ever since diamonds were first discovered in India around 800 B.C.,
nature has held sole claim on their production patent! But now,
scientists have begun to make flawless diamonds in the lab—a
feat that promises not just more bling, but that could also advance
technology in the fields of electronics, transportation, and
communications.
This NOVA scienceNOW segment:
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follows host Neil deGrasse Tyson as he visits a production
facility that makes diamonds.
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describes several extraordinary properties of
diamonds—they can withstand being boiled in an acid or
base; they conduct sound and heat faster, and also have a higher
atomic density, than any other known material.
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reports that these properties are all possible because of the
diamond's unique crystal structure.
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notes that mined diamonds are limited in their scientific
applications because no two are alike.
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details the procedure used to create lab-made diamonds.
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puts the lab-produced diamonds to a test conducted by a New York
City diamond expert.
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reports on the impacts some of the new lab-made diamonds may
have on the fields of electronics, transportation, and
communications.
Taping Rights: Can be used up to one year after the program
is taped off the air.
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