DESCRIPTION

Using the macro tabletop AFM simulators, students will investigate the surface features of various samples using contact, tapping and magnetic modes. The students will measure the amplitude of oscillation of reflected LASER light at known coordinates to map out the surface features of the sample. Data is then analyzed through Microsoft Excel to construct a surface plot of the sample for comparison.

1. Parts and Instruction to Build Macro-AFM (PDF)
2. Building and Using Tapping Mode Macro-AFM in Physics (PDF)
3. Building and Using Contact Mode Macro-AFM in Physics (PDF)
4. Building and Using Magnetic Mode Macro-AFM in Physics (PDF)

Sponsored by
Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute

Authors:
Tom Pittman,
Paul Fedoroff

Institutions:
Burnt Hills–Ballston Lake High School, NY USA

Grade level:
9-12

Subject:
Physics,
Engineering

Time Allocation:
One period per data collection mode