Definition of Nanotechnology - While many definitions for nanotechnology exist, the National Nanotechnology Initiative calls it "nanotechnology" only if it involves all of the following:

1. Research and technology development at the atomic, molecular or macromolecular levels, in the length scale of approximately 1 - 100 nanometer range.

2. Creating and using structures, devices and systems that have novel properties and functions because of their small and/or intermediate size.

3. Ability to control or manipulate on the atomic scale.

Nano Strengths - Medical researchers work at the micro- and nano-scales to develop new drug delivery methods, therapeutics and pharmaceuticals. For instance, DNA, our genetic material, is in the 2.5 nanometer range, while red blood cells are approximately 2.5 micrometers. Nanotechnology simply refers to working with materials that are smaller than 1,000 nanometers. A nanometer is one billionth of a meter and a meter is just over 3 feet. Scientists create and control these tiny materials by manipulating them molecule-by-molecule. Their goal is to create cleaner, stronger and more precise products for people. Properties of an element change at the nano level. Some people consider this a new 'Industrial Revolution.'

Nano Applications - Today scientists can form certain shapes or colors or create a barrier between two other materials using Nanotechnology. Examples of this include the new khakis that are 'stain-resistant' or newly developed paint for cars to protect a car's finish. There are many advances in Nanotechnology including a silicon chip that can be placed in a blind person's eye to help them see with special glasses. Another type of nanotechnology is nano-tube wires, thinner than a single strand of human hair, that can still carry an electrical current or store hydrogen.