Nanotechnology involves manipulating materials at the nanoscale (typically less than 100 nanometers). This allows for the creation of sensors with significantly improved properties due to the unique physical, chemical, and biological characteristics that materials exhibit at this scale. For example, nanomaterials can provide greater surface area, which enhances the sensor's ability to detect minute changes in the environment. Furthermore, the use of nanowires, nanotubes, and quantum dots can lead to sensors with faster response times and higher sensitivity.