A scanning tunnelling microscope (STM) is a high-powered microscope that uses a tiny probe to scan the surface of a material, producing images with extremely high resolution.
The piezoscanner in an STM is used to precisely position the probe over the surface of the material being studied. It allows for fine adjustments in the position of the probe, which is crucial for obtaining accurate images.
An STM works by using a sharp probe, usually made of tungsten, to scan the surface of a material. The probe is brought very close to the surface, and a voltage is applied between the probe and the material. As the probe scans, electrons can "tunnel" through the tiny gap between the probe and the material, producing a current that is used to create an image of the surface.
One of the main advantages of using an STM is its ability to produce images with atomic resolution. This allows scientists to study the structure and properties of materials at a very small scale. Additionally, the STM can be used to manipulate individual atoms and molecules, making it a valuable tool in nanotechnology research.
STMs have a wide range of applications, including materials research, nanotechnology, and semiconductor technology. They are also used in biology and medicine to study biological molecules and cells. Additionally, STMs are used in the development of new electronic devices and in the study of surface chemistry and catalysis.