Scanning Tunneling Microscope (STM)

A Scanning Tunneling Microscope (STM) is a device that allows scientists to visualize and study surfaces at the atomic level. It works by bringing a sharp metal tip very close to a conductive surface; when a voltage is applied, electrons "tunnel" between the tip and surface, creating an electric current. This current varies with the distance between tip and surface. By moving the tip and measuring the current, the STM constructs detailed images of the surface's atomic structure, enabling detailed exploration of materials at an incredibly small scale.