Atomic Scale Force Mapping with the Atomic Force Microscope

摘要

The ability to recognize differences between atoms in topographically similarpositions has been a long-standing goal in Atomic Force Microscopy especially in a biological context. Mapping of forces (often attractive) at very small (< 5 A) tip-sample separations is one plausible way to achieve this. We have measured these types of forces above crystalline surfaces in water. Atomic resolution on attractive forces is demonstrated on the cleavage planes of calcite and muscovite mica. Atomic scale variations in the force between the tip and sample as a function of lateral position are observed on calcite.