Paulis Principle in Probe Microscopy

Exceptionally clear images of intramolecular structure can be attained in dynamic force microscopy through the combination of a passivated tip apex and operation in what has become known as the Pauli exclusion regime of the tip-sample interaction. We discuss, from an experimentalists perspective, a number of aspects of the exclusion principle which underpin this ability to achieve submolecular resolution. Our particular focus is on the origins, history, and interpretation of Paulis principle in the context of interatomic and intermolecular interactions.