Single-atom motion during a lateral STM manipulation

Abstract

We report on the numerical implementation of a virtual scanning tunneling microscope which calculates imaging and manipulation modes and reproduces a feedback loop signal (FLS). Calculating the FLS during a manipulation serves as a direct diagnostic of the mechanics of the adsorbate under the tip apex because pulling, sliding, or pushing modes have their own FLS signatures independently of the manipulated species. As an example, the different FLS are provided for the case of a Xe atom manipulated in the constant current mode.