Scanning Tunneling Microscopy (STM) is an advanced technique in the field of nanotechnology and materials science used to obtain atomic-scale images of surfaces and manipulate individual atoms or molecules. It provides a powerful means to visualize and study the characteristics of materials at the nanoscale level.
STM operates by scanning a sharp tip over the surface of a sample while maintaining a constant distance between the tip and the surface. The tip is typically made of a conductive metal and a voltage is applied between the tip and the sample, generating a tunneling current. The magnitude of this current is highly sensitive to the distance between the tip and the surface and is used to create a topographic map of the surface.
The nanoscale images generated by STM displays the 2D topology of the surface with exceptional resolution, typically reaching the atomic level. It allows scientists to observe the arrangement of atoms, molecules, and their defects on a surface, providing invaluable insight into the properties and behavior of various materials.
In addition to imaging, STM can be employed for manipulation of individual atoms or molecules on the surface. Researchers can precisely position or remove atoms, creating custom structures or modifying existing ones. This capability has significant potential for applications in nanoelectronics, surface chemistry, and catalysis.
Overall, scanning tunneling microscopy has revolutionized the field of nanoscale research by enabling direct visualization and manipulation of matter at atomic and molecular levels, contributing to the advancement of materials science and the development of innovative nanostructures and nanotechnologies.
