Possible to see a water molecule?

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Discussion Overview

The discussion centers around the possibility of capturing images of a water molecule, exploring the limitations of current imaging techniques and the implications of quantum mechanics on classical perceptions of size and visibility.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory
  • Technical explanation
  • Conceptual clarification
  • Debate/contested

Main Points Raised

  • Some participants question whether it is possible to obtain photographic images of a water molecule, noting its small size.
  • Others suggest that while conventional imaging using visible light is not feasible, techniques such as electron microscopy could potentially provide images.
  • A participant references the historical context of atomic imaging, mentioning the scanning tunneling microscope and atomic force microscope, but states they are not aware of any images specifically of water molecules.
  • Another participant raises a question about the implications of water molecules being too small to photograph, specifically regarding their ability to permeate skin pores compared to essential oils, which can enter the bloodstream.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants express differing views on the feasibility of imaging water molecules, with some agreeing that conventional methods are inadequate while others propose alternative techniques. The discussion remains unresolved regarding the implications of molecular size on permeability through skin.

Contextual Notes

Limitations include the definitions of acceptable imaging techniques and the assumptions regarding visibility and permeability of molecules through skin pores.

Who May Find This Useful

Readers interested in molecular imaging techniques, the intersection of quantum mechanics and classical physics, and the biological implications of molecular size may find this discussion relevant.

Mintaka
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Are there ANY possible photographic or other types of images of a water molecule?

Or are they simply too small to get an image of?

Thank you.
 
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Mintaka said:
Are there ANY possible photographic or other types of images of a water molecule?

Or are they simply too small to get an image of?

Thank you.

A conventional image using visible light reflecting off of it? No. It's too small.

However, there are other imaging techniques, such as electron microscopes that could do it.
 
The first imaging of atoms dates back to 1981 using a scanning tunneling microscope [STM], for which Binnig and Roher received a noble in 1986 - see http://www.nobelprize.org/nobel_prizes/physics/laureates/1986/press.html. The atomic force microscope, an offshoot of the STM was invented by Binnig in 1986. It was able to image carbon atoms last year, which raised quite a stir in the nanotech industry - see http://petapixel.com/2013/05/31/sci...s-photos-of-molecules-forming-chemical-bonds/. I'm not aware of any water molecule photos.
 
Thank you all for your replies, links and explanations. I am fascinated by this, though by reading Brian Greene's book The Elegant Universe at the moment, I'm starting to realize that it isn't possible to apply 'classical' thinking or seeing to the quantum world. Kind of natural to want to do so though. On this question, then, if a water molecule is too small to photograph, how is it H20 molecules don't go through skin pores? I read that Essential oils can permeate the skin and enter the blood stream. And skin pores can be easily photographed with a coloured scanning electron micrograph machine, so surely if H2O molecules are invisible they should be able to go into the bloodstream through pores ?
 
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