- Scientists made very small programmable robots in the lab.
- The robots are about the size of microbes.
- They swim in water and have no moving parts.
- Bright light gives them energy and simple instructions.
- Each robot has its own unique identifier.
- Some robots measure temperature with small sensors.
- The robots wiggle to send measured data as signals.
- They can operate for many months without help.
- Each robot costs only about one penny.
Difficult words
- programmable — Can follow set computer instructions
- microbe — A very small living thingmicrobes
- sensor — A small device that measures somethingsensors
- signal — A sign or message sent between thingssignals
- identifier — A code or name that shows identity
- wiggle — Move with small quick side to side motions
Tip: hover, focus or tap highlighted words in the article to see quick definitions while you read or listen.
Discussion questions
- Would you like a tiny robot that swims?
- Would you use a robot to measure temperature?
- How long would you want a robot to work without help?
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