Mesoscopic physics refers to phenomena occurring in a size regime inte
rmediate between that of individual atoms or molecules, and that of ma
croscopic materials. This review provides an introduction to a sub-cla
ss of mesoscopic physics, dealing with quantum transport through nanos
tructures. The dual wave- and particle-nature of the conduction electr
ons is discussed, and illustrated by the examples of the electron wave
guide and the electron box.