IR Optical Tweezer: Instrumentation and DAQ

Optical tweezers have driven advancements in many projects, from cells to nanomaterial research, and are now being used in high school settings for research. Using a laser and optics to manipulate microscopic objects with light, optical tweezers are used to study molecular motors and DNA. We aim to make an impact at our school and beyond by fostering hands-on exploration and original research with an infrared (IR) optical tweezer. Our project focuses on data acquisition and positioning systems. One key component is the quadrant photodiode (QPD), which detects the laser beam’s position, measuring light intensity across its four sections. This project focuses on developing the system to use the QPD to track particle movement. Subsequently, the back focal detection system measures the force exerted on trapped particles by detecting changes in the laser’s focus. We will learn to align and operate the back focal detection system, allowing us to quantify forces. By analyzing the data, we'll gain experience with techniques used in research labs. The construction of this optical tweezer system is part of a broader initiative at Ransom Everglades to introduce students to research. Our project’s ultimate goal is to provide students with opportunities to answer physics questions by utilizing optical tweezers for data analysis.