Low Temperature Scanning Tunneling Microscope for Single Atom Manipulation

by Babonis, Gregory S

In this thesis a low temperature scanning tunneling microscope will be constructed to explore the possibilities of atomic manipulation. In doing so we need to gain an understanding of the quantum mechanical theory of STM operation, set up a complex architecture of specialized equipment to achieve UHV conditions within the STM, control the tip of the microscope through the design and construction of a low noise high voltage amplifier, and record data conclusively demonstrating the ability of the STM to resolve nanoscale surface structures, while more importantly manipulating atoms in a controlled fashion.