Atomic force microscopy or AFM generates an image using a nanoprobe to provide topographical information about a sample with nanometer resolution. While an optical microscope can magnify up to 1000X, the magnification potential of AFM is up to 1,000,000X. AFM can create images of both fixed and live specimens, allowing it to capture dynamic cellular processes such as actin dynamics. The AFM nanoprobe is attached to the end of a flexible cantilever, and together they scan the sample. The probe follows the contours of the sample surface, moving up and down, which displaces the cantilever. In one type of AFM, a laser beam is aimed at the cantilever, and as it moves, the reflection of the laser also moves. A position-sensitive photodetector records the deflection of the laser beam. The data is sent to a computer where software can process it to generate a three-dimensional image of the sample surface.