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DoITPoMS Micrograph Library Micrograph 649 and full record

Micrograph 649 and full record

Link to image file for micrograph 649
Micrograph no
649
Brief description
An image of an alkane crystal taken by AFM
Keywords
alkane, atomic force microscopy Link to MATTER Glossary entry for atomic force microscopy, polymer Link to MATTER Glossary entry for polymer, pyramid, single crystal
Categories
Polymer
System
Alkane
Composition
C36H74
Standard codes
Reaction
Processing
Applications
Sample preparation
Technique
Atomic force microscopy (AFM)
Length bar
30 μm
Further information
The image shows a crystal of short alkane molecules that have grown from solution into the spiral pyramid shown. This is an example of the screw dislocation mode of crystal growth. Each molecule is the same length, consisting of 36 carbon atoms in a long chain with 74 hydrogen atoms attached to these carbons (C36H74). The image, measuring 14 microns along the edge of the base and approximately 100 nm high, was taken using an atomic force microscope (AFM). The AFM scans a sharp stylus over the sample, and by detecting the movement of the stylus as it passes over the crystal, three-dimensional height data are recorded. The artificial colouring applied during this process emphasises the height information - the lowest parts of the crystal are dark red, with the summit of the crystal in a rich plum.
Contributor
R Williamson
Organisation
Scanning Probe Microscopy Group, Bristol University
Date
03/10/02
Licence for re-use
DoITPoMS standard terms of use

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