How Does IBM Manipulate Atoms and What Are the Implications for Data Storage?

In summary, the IBM atom video is a short film released in 1987 showcasing IBM's research on atomic-scale data storage and manipulation using stop-motion animation and a scanning tunneling microscope. Its purpose was to demonstrate IBM's advancements in nanotechnology and serve as a marketing tool. While it is considered scientifically accurate, it may not accurately depict the complexity of working with atoms. Although the specific technology may no longer be relevant, the concepts and principles demonstrated in the video are still applicable in today's rapidly developing field of nanotechnology.
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I have a number of questions about the above video:
  1. What are they using to move the atoms?
  2. What are the wave-like lines around the shape/atoms?
  3. Why can't we see the atoms of the material that the video was filmed on (i.e. the background)?
Side question - What do atoms have to do with data storage and how can this be utilized?
 
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Have you tried exploring the other videos in the series?

IBM explains the movie:


IBM explains the ripples around the atoms
 
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1. What is the IBM atom video?

The IBM atom video is a short film released by IBM in 1987 that showcases the company's research on atomic-scale data storage and manipulation. It is considered to be one of the earliest examples of nanotechnology in film.

2. How was the IBM atom video made?

The IBM atom video was created using a technique called stop-motion animation, in which individual frames were captured one at a time to create the illusion of movement. The atoms used in the video were actually millions of iron atoms arranged in a specific pattern using a scanning tunneling microscope.

3. What was the purpose of creating the IBM atom video?

The purpose of the IBM atom video was to demonstrate the company's advancements in nanotechnology and showcase their potential applications in data storage and computing. It was also used as a marketing tool to showcase IBM's research capabilities and innovation.

4. How accurate is the IBM atom video?

The IBM atom video is considered to be scientifically accurate, as it was based on actual research and techniques used by IBM scientists at the time. However, it should be noted that the video was created for promotional purposes and may not accurately depict the scale and complexity of working with atoms.

5. Is the IBM atom video still relevant today?

While the specific technology featured in the IBM atom video may no longer be in use, the concepts and principles demonstrated in the video are still relevant today. Nanotechnology continues to be a rapidly developing field with many potential applications, and the IBM atom video serves as a reminder of the early stages of this technology.

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