How Does IBM Manipulate Atoms and What Are the Implications for Data Storage?

[f '(x)]

I have a number of questions about the above video:

1. What are they using to move the atoms?
2. What are the wave-like lines around the shape/atoms?
3. Why can't we see the atoms of the material that the video was filmed on (i.e. the background)?

Side question - What do atoms have to do with data storage and how can this be utilized?

 

[Simon Bridge]

Have you tried exploring the other videos in the series?

IBM explains the movie:


IBM explains the ripples around the atoms