Free Summit Next Week: Learn from over 150 years of Optical Design Experience!
Search
Menu
Zurich Instruments AG - Lock-In Amplifiers 4/24 LB
Photonics Dictionary

scanning electron microscope

A scanning electron microscope (SEM) is a powerful imaging instrument used in scientific research, materials characterization, and various industrial applications. Unlike traditional optical microscopes, which use visible light to magnify and image specimens, SEMs use a focused beam of electrons to generate high-resolution images of a sample's surface.

scanning electron microscope suppliers →

The basic principle of operation involves focusing a beam of electrons onto the surface of a specimen. When the electrons interact with the atoms in the sample, various signals are emitted, including secondary electrons, backscattered electrons, and characteristic x-rays. These signals provide information about the sample's topography, composition, and other properties.

In an SEM, the electron beam is scanned across the surface of the sample in a raster pattern, and the emitted signals are detected and used to construct an image. SEM images can reveal details at much higher magnifications and resolutions compared to optical microscopy, making it invaluable for studying the microstructure of materials, nanotechnology, biological samples, and other fields.

SEM images can provide detailed information about the morphology, texture, composition, and elemental distribution of samples, allowing researchers and engineers to gain insights into their properties and behavior at the micro- and nanoscale. SEMs are widely used across various scientific disciplines, including materials science, biology, geology, semiconductor manufacturing, and forensic analysis.
Products & Suppliers
Related Categories


Explore Our Content
News
Features
Latest Products
Webinars
White Papers
All Things Photonics Podcast
Videos
Our Summits & Conferences
Industry Events
Bookstore
Join Our Community
Subscribe
Advertise
Become a member
Sign in
Contribute a Feature
Suggest a Webinar
Submit a Press Release
Mobile Apps

About Us
Our Company
Our Publications
Contact Us
Career Opportunities
Teddi C. Laurin Scholarship

Terms & Conditions
Privacy Policy
California Consumer Privacy Act (CCPA)



©2024 Photonics Media
100 West St.
Pittsfield, MA, 01201 USA
[email protected]
We use cookies to improve user experience and analyze our website traffic as stated in our Privacy Policy. By using this website, you agree to the use of cookies unless you have disabled them.