This project introduces ultrahigh vacuum (UHV) techniques and associated surface physics tools into the laboratory program. An existing UHV system is being equipped with a 3-micrometer-resolution electron gun (to produce secondary-electron and x-ray emission and allow SEM imaging), an Ar ion gun (for sample sputter cleaning), and electron and x-ray detectors, together with electronic units necessary for control and measurement. The resulting multipurpose facility enables students to carry out a variety of observations and measurements, including sample surface imaging and the study of electrons and x-rays emitted when a clean surface is struck by an electron or photon beam. Existing photoelectric effect and x-ray spectrum experiments in the sophomore Atomic and Nuclear Physics course are being improved, new experiments on Auger spectroscopy and electron field emission are being developed for the junior Contemporary Experimental Physics course, and a variety of student research projects are now possible in the junior-senior Special Project laboratory. The facility represents a unique effort to provide research-style tools and techniques to students while keeping costs far below those of high-performance commercial equipment.
