DNA viewed using an atomic force microscope

Touching and feeling the Nanoworld

Mervyn Miles, Emeritus Professor of Physics, University of Bristol

Nanotechnology and nanoscience have huge potential for transforming our lives in many aspects.  Working with structures at the nanometer scale utilizes unique physical, chemical, mechanical and optical properties.  We are interacting with this nanoworld through touch.  The atomic force microscope builds up images by feeling structures as small as atoms with an exceeding sharp probe.  The holographic assembler allows us to manipulate and feel micro and nano structures through trapping in laser beams probes which act as fingertips, opening up exploration in biology and medicine