Scanning Probe Microscopy: "feeling" what you can't see at the nanometer scale
![Model SPM set up](/sites/default/files/styles/tool_full/public/2019-11/u%20mich%20SPM.jpg?itok=BtT_wS3H)
Subject
General Science
Physical Science
Tools and Technology
Education Level
Middle School
Students simulate the function of a scanning probe microscope.This activity works best in groups of 3 students. Scanning Probe Microscopes (SPMs) of various types trace surface features by movement of a very fine pointed tip mounted on a flexible arm across a surface. SPM enables resolution of features down to ~1 nm in height, allowing imaging of single atoms under ideal conditions. In this activity, students will use their index finger as a probe to scan unseen objects.