Springer Series in Surface Sciences

High resolution helium atom scattering can be applied tostudy a number of interesting properties of solid surfaceswith great sensitivity and accuracy. This book treats indetail experimental and theoretical aspects ofthis methodas well as all current applications in surface science. Theindividual chapters - all written by experts in the field -are devoted to the investigation of surface structure,defect shapes and concentrations, the interaction potential,collective and localized surface vibrations at low energies,phase transitions and surface diffusion. Over the pastdecade helium atom scattering has gained widespreadrecognitionwithin the surface science community. Points inits favour are comprehensiveunderstanding of the scatteringtheory and the availability of well-tested approximation tothe rigorous theory. This book will be invaluable to surfacescientists wishing to make an informed judgement on theactual and potential capabilities of this technique and itsresults.