STM observation of enhanced atomic migration by Ni tip on Au(1 1 1) surface

Abstract Enhanced atomic migration with a Ni tip on an Au(1 1 1) surface was investigated by using scanning tunneling microscope. By controlling a tunneling condition, we removed Au monolayer from the Au surface. Mechanism of large atomic migration could be due to atomic force between the Ni tip and the Au surface at close separation. The method of monolayer removal by the Ni tip can be applicable in the nanotechnology as a tool, plane for atoms.