This is a hair from the head of Justin McCarthey - an American student who worked on the Internet Microscope while visiting Manchester from LeHigh University.

As you increase the magnification you will see the tiny scales which cover the surface of our hair. These can be damaged by the sun (Ultra-violet radiation) and chemicals such as salt water, chlorinated water and bleach.

The electron microscope is a common tool for scientists who develop new shampoos and hair treatments. The individual pattern of scales on our hairs is very characteristic.

Forensic scientists working for the police may use an electron microscope to match the hair found at a crime scene with the hairs of a suspected criminal.