Detailed Images Show Intra-Molecular Bonds

Techmeology writes "A team from IBM in Zurich has published images of molecules that are detailed enough to show the lengths of atomic bonds. 'The IBM team's innovation to create the first single molecule picture, of a molecule called pentacene, was to use the tip to pick up a single, small molecule made up of a carbon and an oxygen atom. This carbon monoxide molecule effectively acts as a record needle, probing with unprecedented accuracy the very surfaces of atoms. It is difficult to overstate what precision measurements these are. The experiments must be isolated from any kind of vibration coming from within the laboratory or even its surroundings. They are carried out at a scale so small that room temperature induces wigglings of the AFM's constituent molecules that would blur the images, so the apparatus is kept at a cool -268C.' This allows an analysis of imperfections in the molecular structure (abstract). The team plans to use the method to examine molecules of graphene."

Bonds

[jfdavis668]

James Bonds

Amazing invention

[Hentes]

Using this technology we will be able to produce nanomaterials of unprecedented strength, bringing us one step closer to the space elevator.

Prior art

[GaryOlson]

The scientists better get those molecule pictures copyrighted quickly before the MPAA sues them for infringement.

Re:What this SHOULD be used for...

[Dr.Bob,DC]

I was on a lengthy life-saving mission as part of Chiropractors Without Borders . Whatever you are referring to is best forgotten.