Friday, August 28, 2009

Single molecule's stunning image

Researchers have imaged single molecules in unprecedented detail, showing the chemical bonds that hold them together.

Pentacene molecule image. Even the bonds to the hydrogen atoms at the pentacene's periphery can be seen. (IBM) 

The detailed chemical structure of a single molecule has been imaged for the first time, say researchers.

The physical shape of single carbon nanotubes has been outlined before, using similar techniques - but the new method even shows up chemical bonds.

Understanding structure on this scale could help in the design of many things on the molecular scale, particularly electronics or even drugs.

The IBM researchers report their findings in the journal Science.

It is the same group that in July reported the feat of measuring the charge on a single atom. …

Single molecule's stunning image

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