What is nanotechnology? “Nanotechnology is the manipulation or self-assembly of individual atoms, molecules, or molecular clusters into structures to create materials and devices with new or very different properties. Nanotechnology can work top-down (which means reducing the size of the smallest structures to the nanoscale… or bottom-up (which involves manipulating individual atoms and molecules into nanostructures and is more like chemistry or biology)” (Joseph and Morrison, 2006, p.3, paragraph 2). Several requirements are necessary to meet the definition of nanotechnology; Its goal is to control matter at the nanoscale, using mechanochemistry to form the desired structure. One of the most important criteria is that the nano-structure has its own unique characteristics that are unlike any other nano-structure. be unique. Nanotechnology, in essence, is not futuristic in nature. Scientists refer to a timeline of the development of nanotechnology. The first wave of nanoparticles would only perform one function. Second-wave nanoparticles would be capable of performing multiple functions. The third wave would be proliferation. Nanotechnology is already applied and used today in cosmetics (sunscreen), coatings (anti-scratch surfaces) and to make stronger tools. Short term applications will most likely include items such as paints. Paints created using nanotechnology could have various properties for multiple applications, for example reducing the need for solvents in the paint and thus making it more environmentally friendly, making the paint thinner, which could be used on planes. This would reduce... middle of paper ... and use nanotechnology ethically. What would be the point of this gift that could bring us so much, if we ultimately want to destroy ourselves with it? Works cited by Conjecture Corporation. (2011). What are the possible dangers of nanotechnology?. Retrieved February 17, 2012 from http://www.wisegeek.com/what-are-the-possible-dangers-of-nanotechnology.htmJoseph, T. and Morrison, M. (2006). nanoforum.org. Accessed February 17, 2012 from http://www.nanoforum.org/dateien/temp/nanotechnology in agriculture and food.pdfNanowerk LLC. (2011). Introduction to nanotechnology. Retrieved February 17, 2012 from http://www.nanowerk.com/nanotechnology/introduction/introduction_to_nanotechnology_1.php Qiuping, C. (2001). Expert warns of side effects of nanotechnology. Retrieved February 15, 2012 from http://www.china.org.cn/english/2001/Aug/18023.htm