Nanotechnology is the understanding and control of matter at dimensions between approximately 1 and 100 nanometers (1 nanometer = one-billionth of a meter), where unique phenomena enable novel applications. One of the most common examples of nanotechnology is the use of silver nanoparticles in consumer products. Silver is inherently anti-microbial and has been used to control bacteria since ancient times. By incorporating nanoscale silver into textiles, plastics, and household appliances, manufacturers can make materials that use a small amount of silver to kill bacteria without affecting other properties of the products. Encompassing nanoscale science, engineering, and technology, nanotechnology involves imaging, measuring, modeling, and manipulating matter at this length scale.
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