microprobe

/mɪkrəʊbʌɪp/

Definitions

1. noun

A highly sensitive instrument used to analyze the chemical composition of a small sample by bombarding it with a narrow, focused beam of high-energy particles.

“The researchers used a microprobe to determine the elemental composition of the meteorite.”

2. verb

To examine or analyze a substance using a microprobe.

“The geologist decided to microprobe the sample to identify its mineral composition.”

Synonyms

  • electron probe
  • ion microprobe

Antonyms

  • bulk analyzer
  • macroscopic analyzer