Researchers use various techniques to study discrete atomic interactions, including:
Atomic Force Microscopy (AFM): A type of scanning probe microscopy that measures the forces between a sharp probe and the surface of a material. Scanning Tunneling Microscopy (STM): A technique that maps the surface of a material at the atomic level by measuring the tunneling current between a sharp tip and the surface. Spectroscopy: Methods such as Raman spectroscopy and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy provide information about the chemical composition and bonding states of materials. Molecular Dynamics Simulations: Computational techniques that model the interactions between atoms and molecules over time, providing insights into their behavior and properties.