What are scanning tunnelling microscopes?
Author: Evan Mattensen
Website: http://www.e-Microscope.com
Added: Mon, Jul 3, 2006 13:53:21
Category: Microscope Questions
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Scanning tunnelling microscopes are instruments used in scanning probe microscopy. They can view very small images of any conductive surface and can inspect an area as small as 2 x 10-10 m or 0.2 nanometer.
Using its tip, it can alter the material being investigated by manipulating its atoms. This tip is connected to a scanner, a positioning device, then a computer where the data is transmitted.
The scanning tunnelling microscope allows a scientist to visualize areas of high electron density, consequently letting him or her understand the position of individual atoms, where before most could only give an educated guess.
See also: Microscope | Scanning Microscope | Atoms | Microscopy About the Author:
Evan Mattensen answers frequently asked microscope questions at PrettyGreatAnswers.com.
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