Imaging metal atoms in air and water using the atomic force microscope

Abstract
Gold atoms in an epitaxial film on mica are clearly visible in images obtained with an atomic force microscope (AFM). The measured lattice spacing of 3.0± 0.3 Å is consistent with previous scanning tunneling microscope images obtained in air and vacuum. Atoms are visible even if the sample surface, tip, and cantilever are submerged in water in a closed cell. Electrochemical studies of metal electrodes at atomic resolution may now be possible with the AFM.