Surface Scattering Experiments With Conduction Electrons (springer Tracts In Modern Physics)

Surface Scattering Experiments with Conduction Electrons shows how this process can be used to investigate surface processes of thin metal films. Since a thin film is in one direction of a size comparable to the mean free path of the conduction electrons, such a film is both substrate and sensor and must be characterized by other surface-analytical methodsas demonstrated here. Also discussed is how the dc-resistivity measurement permits the study of surface processes such as adsorption, desorption, and surface diffusion up to crystalline growth. The in situ observation of epitaxial growth is additionally shown to be possible. Thus the electronic structure of superimposed metal films and superlattices can be elucidated. This is an essential topic for all surface physicists. 1. Introduction -- 2. The Electrical Conductivity Of Thin Metal Films. 2.1. Characteristic Lengths. 2.2. Quantum Effects. 2.3. Film Structure. 2.4. Classical-size Effect -- 3. Concepts To Describe The Surface Influence. 3.1. The Perfect Metal Vacuum Boundary. 3.2. Defects And Adsorbates. 3.3. Superimposed Films -- 4. Thin Metal Films On Glass Supports. 4.1. Preparation. 4.2. Characterization. 4.2.1. Electron Microscopy And Electron Diffraction. 4.2.2. X-ray Diffraction. 4.2.3. Scanning Tunnelling Microscopy. 4.2.4. Electrical Conductivity -- 5. Studies Of Surface And Growth Processes. 5.1. Adsorption And Desorption. 5.2. Diffusion Processes. 5.3. Coverage Dependence. 5.4. Film Growth -- 6. Final Remarks. Dieter Schumacher. Includes Bibliographical References And Index. Introduction....Pages 1-1 The electrical conductivity of thin metal films....Pages 3-15 Concepts to describe the surface influence....Pages 17-29 Thin metal films on glass supports....Pages 31-52 Studies of surface and growth processes....Pages 53-81 Final remarks....Pages 83-83 Provides a new tool for experimental surface physicists. Conduction electrons in thin metal films are used to characterize surface processes such as absorption, desorption and surface diffusion up to the first stages of crystalline growth.