Scanning tunneling microscopy (STM) is a powerful imaging technique that allows scientists to visualize surfaces at the atomic level by measuring the tunneling current between a sharp conducting tip and the surface being examined. This technique is based on the principles of quantum mechanics, particularly the phenomenon of quantum tunneling, which enables the tip to 'feel' the surface atoms as it scans across them. STM is integral in understanding nanoscale materials and plays a crucial role in advancements like DNA nanotechnology by providing detailed insights into molecular structures.
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