AFM is a type of scanning probe microscopy used to create high
resolution three-dimensional profiles of a sample surface. ATM has resolution
at the level of fractions of a nanometer and can be used to image, measure and
manipulate mater at the nanoscale level. ATM operates at ambient pressure which gives it several advantages over
scanning electron microscopy including analysis of biological samples without
extensive sample preparation and allowing for a smaller, portable and less
expensive instrument. Compared to scanning electron microscopy, the ATM
scanning range for all three dimensions is smaller.