National Cancer Institute (source definition)
Atomic Resolution Microscopy
Several related technologies for imaging and measuring surfaces on a fine scale, down to the level of molecules and groups of atoms. These technologies share the concept of scanning an extremely sharp tip (3-50 nm radius of curvature) across the object surface. The tip is mounted on a flexible cantilever, allowing the tip to follow the surface profile. When the tip moves in proximity to the investigated object, forces of interaction between the tip and the surface influence the movement of the cantilever. Various interactions can be studied depending on the specific mechanics of the probe. Specialized sensors detect and record the movements of the cantilever, providing an image with resolution at the atomic level.
Review and references
Automated source check (NCI definition)
2026-10-20
2026-10-20
professional use
What it is
Several related technologies for imaging and measuring surfaces on a fine scale, down to the level of molecules and groups of atoms. These technologies share the concept of scanning an extremely sharp tip (3-50 nm radius of curvature) across the object surface. The tip is mounted on a flexible cantilever, allowing the tip to follow the surface profile. When the tip moves in proximity to the investigated object, forces of interaction between the tip and the surface influence the movement of the cantilever. Various interactions can be studied depending on the specific mechanics of the probe. Specialized sensors detect and record the movements of the cantilever, providing an image with resolution at the atomic level.
Source: National Cancer Institute, NCI Thesaurus 26.09d, C20346. NCI definition, reproduced without modification under CC BY 4.0.
Source identity and definition checked automatically on 2026-10-20. No individual clinical interpretation or human reviewer is asserted.
Compliance note
Reference intervals and interpretation depend on the laboratory, specimen, method and clinical context. This source definition is educational information; it does not establish a diagnosis, product approval or suitability for an individual.