Why Is It Not Possible for the Scanning Probe Microscope

question 19

Multiple Choice

Why is it not possible for the scanning probe microscope (SPM) to make images of the inside of an atom?

• A)The most representative "image" of the inside of the atom would be a picture of empty space.
• B)The SPM works by passing a current across a tiny gap between the tip of an ultrathin needle and the surface being studied. No gap, no image.
• C)The SPM ultrathin needle itself is made of atoms and so is not tiny enough to pierce through an atom much like a sewing needle can pierce into a Ping-Pong ball.
• D)All of the above are reasonable answers.