Use of lasers for visualization of molecules and for spatial localization of molecular bonds

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One of the most difficult problems in molecular physics is to obtain direct data on the spatial-chemical structure of complex organic molecules. The most effective method, which under favorable conditions yields data on the spatial and chemical structures of macromolecules, is x-ray structure analysis. The capabilities of x-ray optics are limited and it has not been possible so far to construct an x-ray microscope for direct visualization of molecules. That the problem of spatial localization of atoms and of bonds in molecules is urgent is indicated by the fact that it is being considered as the most significant potential application of future short-wave ..gamma.. and x-ray lasers (molecular holography). The author of this paper asserts that optical lasers can also be effectively used in research into the spatial-chemical structure of biolgical molecules. He discusses basic modifications of the methods of field electron and field ion microscopy, which raise hopes for effective application of these methods for the observation of macromolecule structures.