High resolution images of single C₆₀ molecules on gold (111) using scanning tunneling microscopy

The electronic interactions of fullerene molecules with metals, with other molecules, and with themselves are important to the chemical and conductive properties of these materials. We demonstrate high resolution scanning tunneling microscopy images of C₆₀ molecules condensed on epitaxial gold (111) films on mica, in which the C₆₀ molecules are isolated from each other. The C₆₀ molecules were locked in position to the gold substrate by an ordered layer of methyl isobutyl ketone. The images of the C₆₀ molecules exhibit intramolecular contrast indicating a significant electronic interaction with the gold substrate. Current versus voltage measurements show that both the C₆₀ and the thin film of methyl isobutyl ketone have conductances comparable to that of the gold substrate.