9451627 Calle This project will acquire an Instructional Scanning Tunneling Microscope, which will be used to strengthen and modernize the advanced physics laboratory. The extreme magnification and measurement resolution capability of the STM will permit the students to visualize surface atoms, perform experiments in atomic structure, measure atomic dimensions, and study the surfaces and defects of semiconductors. The STM will also be used in the second semester of the traditional calculus-based physics course in class demonstrations to allow the students to observe atomic surfaces and perform a simple measurement experiment. We also plan to introduce the instrument in our course for nonmajors, allowing the students to observe atomic surfaces. Finally, our seniors will be able to undertake research projects with the STM. The equipment will strengthen and modernize our laboratory offerings at all levels and will provide our students with exciting state-of-the-art experiences.
