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Quantum Effect Between Object and Probe Could Enable Higher Resolution AFM

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A novel technique, dubbed quantum atomic force microscopy, has the potential to significantly enhance the spatial, spectral and temporal resolution of AFM for nanometrology of materials.

Researchers at Oak Ridge National Laboratory (ORNL) have introduced the concept of a quantum-mechanical modality that capitalizes on squeezed states of probe displacement. The technique tracks the minute interactions between the probe of the microscope and the surface of the sample to locate the precise point where quantum effects stabilize the probe, resulting in more sensitive measurements.

Quantum squeezing technique for higher resolution AFM, ORNL.

When two objects approach each other, an interfacial interaction force becomes significant. By using this force, one may utilize quantum effects to advantageously control the motion of the probe. Courtesy of ORNL.


“That’s the theoretical prediction of this effect,” said researcher Ali Passian. “Of course, the experiments will have the final say on how much better we can do, but the basic concept and theory are viable.”

Researchers showed that squeezing was enabled nanomechanically when the probe entered the van der Waals regime of interaction with a sample. They studied the effect in noncontact mode, where the parameter domains characterizing the attractive regime of the probe-sample interaction force could be evaluated.

The research was published in Physical Review A (doi: 10.1103/PhysRevA.95.043812).


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Published: May 2017
Glossary
metrology
Metrology is the science and practice of measurement. It encompasses the theoretical and practical aspects of measurement, including the development of measurement standards, techniques, and instruments, as well as the application of measurement principles in various fields. The primary objectives of metrology are to ensure accuracy, reliability, and consistency in measurements and to establish traceability to recognized standards. Metrology plays a crucial role in science, industry,...
quantum
The term quantum refers to the fundamental unit or discrete amount of a physical quantity involved in interactions at the atomic and subatomic scales. It originates from quantum theory, a branch of physics that emerged in the early 20th century to explain phenomena observed on very small scales, where classical physics fails to provide accurate explanations. In the context of quantum theory, several key concepts are associated with the term quantum: Quantum mechanics: This is the branch of...
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