Chapter 15, Problem 4RQ

To determine

The type microscope used to visualize the positions of individual atoms.

Answer to Problem 4RQ

The microscope that allows us to visualize the positions of individual atoms is the scanning probe microscope.

Explanation of Solution

An atom is so small that it could not be seen even through a microscope. This is because the visible light passes right them. An individual light is smaller than the wavelength of visible light. So it cannot reflect that light. Even today, there is no technique to observe atoms directly.

However, with the advancement of technology, it is now possible to generate images of them indirectly. Through a scanning probe microscope, images are produced by dragging an ultrathin needle back and forth over the surface of a sample. Interactions with the surface atoms are detected and translated by a computer into three-dimensional images that correspond to the positions of atoms on the surface.

Conclusion:

Therefore, microscope that allows us to visualize the positions of individual atoms is the scanning probe microscope.