Th e Handbook of Nanophysics is the fi rst comprehensive reference to consider both fundamental and applied aspects of nanophysics. As a unique feature of this work, we requested contributions to be submitted in a tutorial style, which means that state-of-the-art scientifi c content is enriched with fundamental equations and illustrations in order to facilitate wider access to the material. In this way, the handbook should be of value to a broad readership, from scientifi cally interested general readers to students and professionals in materials science, solid-state physics, electrical engineering, mechanical engineering, computer science, chemistry, pharmaceutical science, biotechnology, molecular biology, biomedicine, metallurgy, and environmental engineering.