Symbol n. A prefix used in the metric system to denote 10−9. For example, 10−9 second=1 nanosecond (ns).
Mathematics
Prefix used with SI units to denote multiplication by 10−9. Abbreviated as n.
Chemistry
A prefix used in the metric system to denote 10−9. For example, 10−9 second = 1 nanosecond (ns).
Chemical Engineering
A prefix used to denote a scale of 10−9. For example, a distance of 10−9 m or one nanometre (nm) is typically the scale used in the study of molecular structures of macromolecules.
Computer
(symbol: n) A prefix to a unit, indicating a submultiple of one billionth, 10−9, of that unit, as in nanosecond.
Biology
Symbol n. A prefix used in the metric system to denote 10−9. For example, 10−9 metre=1 nanometre (nm).
Geology and Earth Sciences
From the Greek nanos meaning ‘dwarf’, a prefix meaning ‘extremely small’ (e.g. nanofossil). Attached to SI units it denotes the unit ×10−9.