Wheelchairs Glossary

Wheelchair :
"A wheelchair is a wheeled mobility device in which the user sits.The device is propelled either manually (by pushing the wheels with the hands) or via various automated systems. Wheelchairs are used by people for whom walking is difficult or impossible due to illness, injury, or disability."

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Wheelchair

Manual Wheelchair :
"Manual wheelchairs are those that require human power to move them. There are three types of manual wheelchair: self-propelled, attendant-propelled, and wheelbase. Many manual wheelchairs can be folded for storage or placement into a vehicle, although modern wheelchairs are just as likely to be rigid framed."

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Wheelchair

Powerchairs :
"These are wheelchairs that move on electricity and do not need to be manually propelled .Three general styles of powerchairs exist: rear, center, front wheel driven or four wheel driven. Each style has particular handling characteristics. Powerchairs are also divided by seat type; some models resemble manual chairs, with a sling-style seat and frame, whereas others have 'captain's chair' seating like that of an automobile. Powerchairs run the gamut from small and portable/foldable/disassemblable models to very large and heavy full-featured chairs (these are often called 'rehab' chairs)."

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Wheelchair

Mobility Scooter :
"A mobility scooter is a mobility aid similar to a wheelchair but configured like a motorscooter. It is often referred to as a power-operated vehicle/scooter or electric scooter as well."

"A mobility scooter has a seat over two rear wheels, a flat area for the feet, and handlebars in front to turn one or two steerable wheels. The seat may swivel to allow access when the front is blocked by the handlebars. Mobility scooters are usually electric-powered. A battery or two is stored onboard the scooter, and is charged via an onboard or separate charger unit from standard electric outlets. Gasoline-powered scooters are also available, though they are rapidly being replaced by electric models."

http://www.answers.com/Mobility scooter