Scanning tunneling and atomic force microscopes open fascinating views onto atomic-scale properties of surfaces. This course gives comprehensive insights into the quantum mechanical foundation, the technical realization and the various measuring principles of both techniques. With numerous examples from the current research, it demonstrates how scanning probe methods have contributed to the enormous progress in surface science during the past years. It presents, for example, experimental approaches to analyze the atomic structure of surfaces, the electronic properties of quantum system, the vibrational and luminescence properties of individual molecules and the magnetic response of single atoms. In addition, means to alter and manipulate surfaces at the atomic level are introduced. All experimental approaches will be discussed together with the underlying physical background and practical applications. The students thus get acquainted with two fascinating experimental methods, but also learn to link this knowledge with topical developments in nano- and quantum physics. The course terminates with an excursion through the ‘Oldenburg Surface Science’ labs, where the corresponding experimental techniques can be experienced in action.
Concepts of scanning tunneling and atomic force microscopy Spectroscopic applications to probe electronic, vibrational, optical and magnetic properties at surfaces Atomic nature of surfaces, binding schemes of atoms and molecules, electronic and optical functionality of nanoscale systems Insights into state-of-the-art literature on scanning probe techniques and surface science
