High School
As nanotechnology plays an ever increasing role in the advancement of science, engineering and technology, it is essential that students learn basic nanotechnology concepts. Using an atomic force microscope is an excellent pathway for a students first exposure to nano-scale concepts. For example, with an atomic forece microscope students:
- Learn about nanoscale microscopy
- Can see the AFM measure images on nanoscale features
- Learn to operate an AFM
Examples of AFMWorkshop customers at high schools include:
Roanoke Valley Governer's School for Science and Technology
Students in this program use the AFM to scan samples and do senior research projects. As an example, a senior student studied the corrosive effects of chlorine on water pipes. This students projects won three special awards, and four ribbons as science fairs.
Irvine School District
Using funds from the NSF Center for Chemistry at the Space Time Limit (CaSTL) Irvine school district purchased an AFM and ran an 8 year project. During the project, on an annual basis, a group of students had the opportunity to construct the AFM and learn how to operate it in a laboratory environment.
Orlando Science School
Based in central Florida, The Orland science school purchased a B-AFM. They use the AFM to show students how an AFM works and to scan samples including DVDs and CDs.
