Atomic Force Microscopy
Digital Instrument's BioScope Anyone who has ever taken the time to critically examine a walnut knows that a two-dimensional photograph fails in many respects to truly convey the unique features--the nicks, crannies, valleys, and grooves--of the walnut shell. Researchers use atomic force microscopy (AFM) to literally map the surface of inert and biological samples to obtain three-dimensional images. Whereas technological developments in microscopy1,2 have facilitated the detailed characterizatio
Jan 21, 2001
![]() Digital Instrument's BioScope |
AFM is just one of a number of novel microscopy technologies collectively known as scanning probe microscopy (SPM). In principle, all SPM technologies are based on the interaction between a submicroscopic probe and the surface of some material. What differentiates SPM technologies is the nature of the interaction and...
Interested in reading more?
Become a Member of
Receive full access to digital editions of The Scientist, as well as TS Digest, feature stories, more than 35 years of archives, and much more!
Already a member?