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scanning tunneling microscope

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scanning tunneling microscope
n.
A microscope that scans the surface of a sample with a beam of electrons, causing a narrow channel of tunneling electrons to flow between the sample and the beam, and producing three-dimensional images of atomic topography and structure.
scanning tunneling microscope
A microscope used to make images of individual atoms on the surface of a metal. The microscope has a probe with a small voltage applied to it ending in a tiny sharp tip (ideally consisting of one atom) that is moved close the material's surface. Quantum tunneling of electrons between tip and the metal provides a small current, and that current is held constant by varying the distance between the tip and the material's surface atoms. As the probe is moved across the surface, a three-dimension image of the surface is formed, based on the continual adjustments made to the height of the tip to keep the electron flow constant.
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When a molecule was centered on a tiny bump, a nudge with the scanning tunneling microscope sent the legs of the molecule gently rotating, while the center stayed stationary.
Single molecule gets geared up: tiny version of basic machine ... by Sanders, Laura / Science News
The custom-built, ultra-low-temperature and ultra-high-vacuum scanning tunneling microscope allowed them to sweep an adjustable magnetic field across graphene samples prepared at Georgia Tech, observing and mapping the peculiar non-uniform spacing among discrete energy levels that form when the material is exposed to magnetic fields.
Scientists reveal secrets of graphene's extraordinary properties by Asian News International
He describes new methods of production; the rise and (anticipated) decline of the silicon economy; the rebuilding of high tech atom by atom through scanning tunneling microscopes, nanomachines and other devices; the revolutionary new computers, including distributed platforms; information systems; and business mutations and digital opportunities, including such elements as highly diffused information systems, web applications and a mutation of what information technology is and does.
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