Observations of Lattice Images of Light Element Crystals by Means of an Electron Microscope

Abstract

Crystal lattice images of light element crystals such as aluminium and copper were observed with an electron microscope. Crystal films of optimum thicknesses were deposited epitaxially in a vacuum. Very high contrast images of aluminium lattice planes were observed at a thickness equal to a quarter of the extinction distance. Contrast attenuation of the image with increasing thickness is discussed in terms of the inelastically scattered electrons appearing at the background of the image. The effect of inclination of the lattice planes on the contrast of the image during observation due to the heavy electron bombardment is also discussed.