Plasmonic Polymer (IMAGE) Rice University Caption How far a wavelength of light can be transmitted along a gold nanoparticle chain to where it dies down (the "extinction" point) depends on the configuration of the repeat units – the nanoparticles themselves – according to Rice University researchers. Their study was intended to draw parallels between nanoparticle arrays and polymers that also depend on chemical repeat units for their characteristics. Credit Liane Slaughter/Rice University Usage Restrictions None License Licensed content Disclaimer: AAAS and EurekAlert! are not responsible for the accuracy of news releases posted to EurekAlert! by contributing institutions or for the use of any information through the EurekAlert system.