Scanning probe microscopy: applications in biology and physics

Scanning probe microscopes can probe a variety of quantities characterizing surfaces. This overview paper describes techniques applicable in an ambient environment and having the power to distinguish different materials: the scanning force and friction microscope and the scanning near-field optical microscope combined with a spectrometer. The basic operating principles of these two microscopes are described. Selected experiments point to possible future applications: we discuss scanning force and friction microscopy of ZnSe on GaAs and of Na, K-ATPase and near-field optical microscopy of a grating and of micropores