Using a Quantum Twisting Microscope

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The technique uses an atomic force microscope to bring two 2D materials together. When the layers are brought together, they interact in a similar way to the scanning tunneling microscope. But with a whole layer of atoms rather than a single atom at the tip. The team are able to get measurements and essentially visualize electrons in their natural habitat.

00:45 A new microscope to look for ‘magic’ angles

To better visualise how electrons are ‘moving’ in materials, a team have developed the Quantum Twisting Microscope. This instrument puts two 2D layers of atoms into close contact, allowing them to interact, which can give useful information about their properties. The microscope can also rotate one of the layers, helping researchers look for so-called ‘magic angles’, where 2D materials like graphene can exhibit extraordinary properties.

Research article: Inbar et al.

News & Views: A twist in the bid to probe electrons in solids

09:55 Research Highlights

How an extinct insect larvae’s prodigiously long ‘neck’ may have helped it hunt, and surveying the levels at which coastal cities are converting water into land.

Research Highlight: Extinct insects hunted like predatory giraffes

Research Highlight: Cities worldwide claw vast amounts of land from the sea

12:21 How Russia’s invasion has affected science in Ukraine

This week marks the first anniversary of Russia’s invasion of Ukraine. We discuss how science has fared in Ukraine over the past 12 months, and how international collaborations are shaping the future of research in the country.

News Feature: The fight to keep Ukrainian science alive through a year of war

Editorial: Rebuilding Ukrainian science can’t wait — here’s how to start

World View: Ukrainian science has survived against the odds — now let’s rebuild together

19:52 Briefing Chat

We discuss some highlights from the Nature Briefing. This time, the US Food and Drug Administration’s requirements to increase diversity in clinical trials, and research suggesting that snakes are better listeners than previously thought.

Nature News: FDA to require diversity plan for clinical trials

Science Alert: Snakes Can Hear You Better Than You Think

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