A brief overview will be given of the remarkable structural and electronic properties of carbon nanotubes, which are tiny structures of molecular dimensions in the form of hollow cylinders with about 20 carbon atoms around the circumference of the cylinders and microns in length. Unusual properties follow as a consequence of quantum mechanical phenomena associated with this one-dimensional system. The unique electronic properties of these carbon nanotubes are that they can be either semiconducting or metallic depending on their geometry. From this, stem other remarkable and unique properties, as observed in their vibrational spectra and in their strength and stiffness. Though less than a decade since their discovery, carbon nanotubes are already finding practical applications based on their unique properties.
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