AFMs can operate in several different modes depending on the type of information desired:
Contact Mode: The tip is in continuous contact with the sample surface, allowing for high-resolution imaging but may cause damage to soft samples. Tapping Mode: The tip oscillates near the surface, intermittently making contact. This mode reduces damage to soft samples while still providing high-resolution images. Non-Contact Mode: The tip hovers close to the surface without making contact, which is useful for imaging delicate samples without causing damage.
