Atomic Force Microscopy (AFM)
This method of microscopy is able to visualize objects at the nanoscale. This means that we are able to observe objects with 0.1 nanometers of resolution in the vertical direction. Even though we say “visualize”, this process actually indirectly views the object. AFM uses a needle-like apparatus with a tip of about 30-80 nanometers in diameter to push directly onto the object. The tip moves in response to changes in the surface of the object. Using lasers, this change can be recorded and a reconstruction of the object can form an image. Check the video below for an overview on AFM microscopy.
[Youtube video link] https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ha53tFTsmW8