In: Physics
An atomic force microscope consists of a cantilever with a very fine tip on one end. The lever is driven by a piezoelectric motor allowing the tip to make very fine movements along the surface in order to scan on an atomic scale. As it scans the surface, what is the main frictional force between the tip and the surface?
a |
rolling |
b |
static |
c |
all three |
d |
kinetic |
The main frictional force will be the kinetic frictional force due to the movement of the probe over the surface.
It will not encounter rolling friction as there are no rotational parts.
It will not encounter static friction by virtue of its operation involving its movement over the object's surface.