Can We Truly See the Structures of Compounds in Chemistry and Physics?

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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on the ability to visualize the structures of compounds in chemistry and physics, questioning traditional educational approaches that assume structural knowledge. Key techniques mentioned include Atomic Force Microscopy (AFM) and Scanning Tunneling Microscopy (STM), which hold potential for directly observing structures. The conversation highlights the theoretical nature of many molecular models, such as DNA, which were not directly visualized but inferred through experimental data. The distinction between photon-based and electron/neutron-based imaging methods is also emphasized as a critical point in understanding structural visualization.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of Atomic Force Microscopy (AFM)
  • Familiarity with Scanning Tunneling Microscopy (STM)
  • Basic knowledge of molecular structures in chemistry
  • Concept of experimental inference in scientific research
NEXT STEPS
  • Research the principles and applications of Atomic Force Microscopy (AFM)
  • Explore Scanning Tunneling Microscopy (STM) techniques and their uses in material science
  • Study the historical development of molecular models in chemistry, focusing on DNA
  • Investigate the differences between photon scattering and electron/neutron scattering methods in structural analysis
USEFUL FOR

Chemists, physicists, educators in the sciences, and researchers interested in structural analysis and visualization techniques in material science.

lewis198
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hey guys, I was thinking about the history of chemistry/physics and thought:

Ok, we know from experimentation that there is matter that cannot be easily reduced, i.e. elements.

However the way we are taught about (in)organic chemistry at school assumes that the structure is a given. How does one tell the structure of a compound, without actually looking at it? Ok, salt would be easy, and metals, but what process would take place?

Does AFM, STM and other forms of microscopy hold promise of 'seeing' actual structures? Because it seems that many structures are just theory and can be falsified.
 
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for example the structure of DNA was not actually 'seen', it was just a model based on the experiments and theory of other physicists.
 
What's seeing if not just bouncing photons off and back-inferring from the scattering pattern? Replace photons with electrons... or with neutrons... and you do the back-inferring on a computer... what's the difference?
 

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