An instrument for ascertaining information about individual atoms in a sample; specifically one consisting of a field-ion microscope, in which ionized atoms evaporated from the sample surface are accelerated, and a mass spectrometer in which they are analysed.
Origin
1960s.
Definition of atom probe in US English:
atom probe
noun
An instrument for ascertaining information about individual atoms in a sample; specifically one consisting of a field-ion microscope, in which ionized atoms evaporated from the sample surface are accelerated, and a mass spectrometer in which they are analysed.