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Cross-sectioning is a technique used to reveal the internal structure of an object by removing a portion of it. This creates a flat surface, or cross-section, that can then be examined. The process can be applied to a wide range of materials, from biological specimens to manufactured goods.

In biology, cross-sectioning is essential for studying the anatomy of tissues and organs. Thin slices are often made to be viewed under a microscope, allowing researchers to observe cellular arrangements and details. Histology, the study of microscopic tissues, relies heavily on this method.

For materials science and engineering, cross-sectioning is used for quality control and failure analysis. By cutting through a component, engineers can inspect for defects, measure dimensions, and understand how materials behave under stress. Metallography, the study of the physical structure and components of metals, frequently involves preparing cross-sections for analysis.

The tools and methods used for cross-sectioning vary depending on the material and the required precision. These can range from simple cutting tools like knives and saws to more advanced techniques such as laser cutting, microtomes for ultra-thin biological slices, and abrasive waterjet cutting for tougher materials. The resulting cross-section may be left as is, or it might undergo further preparation, such as polishing or etching, to enhance its visibility and detail.