Scanning Probe Microscope

A Scanning Probe Microscope (SPM) is a tool that allows scientists to examine surfaces at extremely small scales, down to individual atoms. It works by using a tiny probe, often a sharp tip, which gently scans across the material's surface. As it moves, it detects very subtle interactions—like forces or electrical signals—between the tip and the surface. These measurements are then used to create detailed images and maps of the surface’s structure and properties, enabling researchers to study materials, biological specimens, and nanotechnology with remarkable precision.