A simple numerical calculation correctly predicts the observed size regime for growth of tetrapodal chalcogenide...

Synthetic schemes yielding monodisperse nanocrystalline particulates in the form of tetrapods, rods, and prisms have been recently discovered. Conditions promoting growth of different shapes of particulates have been defined. However, the rationale for anisotropic growth and the evolution of specific shapes, such as tetrapods, is as yet unknown. On the basis of simple numerical calculations, we suggest that the need to conserve the surface atoms plays a vital role in the growth of nanocrystals in the formation of tetrapods and correctly predicts the size regime in which such structures are obtained.