A LEGOTM dynamic force “macroscope”

Abstract

We describe the design, construction, and operation of a LEGOTM model of a dynamic force microscope, using magnetic forces as an analog of interatomic interactions. The macroscope provides key insights into the operating principles of frequency modulated non-contact atomic force microscopy—currently the scanning probe technique of choice for maximal (i.e., submolecular) spatial resolution—and is, therefore, particularly suited as a project or demonstration for nanoscience education at the undergraduate or postgraduate level.