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About Tom Whiting
Expertise
I can answer most questions involving general science and engineering, except those involving electronics and computers.  My strong points are all the Earth Sciences, especially Meteorology and Astronomy, and any related subjects to Astronomy.  My weak point is Electronics Technology.   No astrology questions please, or questions about alleged UFO identifications.

Experience
My hobby has been Astronomy for over 50 years. I currently ownand use a 30 inch portable telescope.   I taught at the University Level for 13 years.  My personal interest in life, in general,  has always been science oriented.

Organizations
President - Erie County Mobile Observers Group for over 15 years.Member of allexperts.com astronomy catagory for over 8 years.

Publications
Astronomy Technology TodayErie Times Newspaper - I wrote the "Over Erie Skies" columnfor 11 years.

Education/Credentials
BS  Metallurgical Engineering Grove City College, PAMaster's Degree, Gannon University, Erie, PAAlso retired USAF pilot, 20 years.

Awards and Honors
I was the discoverer of the Mini-Coathanger Asterism up in Ursa Minor.  I earned 6 Air Medals with USAF and retired after 20 years of service with the rank of Major, with over 2100 hours flying time.I also earned the rank of Eagle Scout in 1956.

 
   

You are here:  Experts > Science > Urban Legends and Folklore > Popular Science > Can we see atoms?

Popular Science - Can we see atoms?


Expert: Tom Whiting - 10/12/2009

Question
Can we see atoms?  If it is yes. How can we see them?

Answer
Hi Luz,
Not with the naked eye of course, but yes, using either a field ion microscope, or a scanning
eletron microscope, see
http://www.ornl.gov/info/ornlreview/rev28-4/text/atoms.htm
Just google 'seeing atoms' for more pictures and examples.
What we haven't seen yet, I believe, is individual quarks, although their existence is inferred
by indirect methods.
Clear Skies,
Tom Whiting
Erie, PA

FOLLOW UP:
Also see individual atoms using an electron microscope at
http://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2008/02/080221153725.htm
Clear Skies,
Tom

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