We discuss the principles of magnetic force microscopy and present a method of using a relatively inexpensive instructional atomic force microscope in intermediate-level course work. We present calculations and images that give a qualitative feel for the crossover between different dominant forces due to varying ranges of interaction in force microscopy and fundamental physics.

This content is only available via PDF.
AAPT members receive access to the American Journal of Physics and The Physics Teacher as a member benefit. To learn more about this member benefit and becoming an AAPT member, visit the Joining AAPT page.