Introduction to the Properties of Crystal Surfaces

Introduction to the Properties of Crystal Surfaces is an introductory text on crystal surfaces and their properties. A variety of phenomena, including electron emission, adsorption and oxidation, adhesion, friction, nucleation and epitaxial growth, and heterogeneous catalysis, are described by considering the details of the atomic and electronic structure in the surface region. This volume is comprised of seven chapters and begins with a discussion on the thermodynamics of surfaces, along with the equilibrium configuration at the intersection of interfaces and the effects of curvature of crystalline surfaces. The next chapter examines the properties of interfaces in multi-component systems, followed by an analysis of experimental measurements of surface tension in solids. The atomic structure of crystal surfaces and some theoretical aspects of surface studies are also considered, and experimental methods in used in such studies are outlined. The final chapter deals with two atomic processes that are involved in a number of reactions at crystal surfaces: surface atomic diffusion and adsorption. This book is intended for senior undergraduates in a materials science type of curriculum or those beginning research work in the field or associated areas.