The Morphology and Thermodynamics of Solid Surfaces
Abstract
The energetics of solid surfaces is reviewed, starting from atomistic descriptions, up to the oscopic scale. The equilibrium crystal shape, the stability of surfaces are introduced in a twofold approach. On one hand thermodynamical methods and concepts are given and on the other hand microscopic models are introduced. The links between the two approaches are examplified in the case of vicinal surfaces. In order to give concepts which might be of use for the surfaces of quasicrystals a particular emphasis is put on descriptions in terms of atomic steps and their interactions. The main ingredients of oscopic elasticity applicable to surfaces are given, with applications to the elastic interaction between defects. Thermodynamical roughening is reviewed in terms of atomic models and capillary approaches. The classical theory of diffusion on surfaces is introduced while Langevin descriptions allow for understanding of temporal fluctuations of steps.
- Publication:
-
Quasicrystals: Proceedings of the Spring School. Edited by BELIN-FERRE E
- Pub Date:
- 2000
- DOI:
- 10.1142/9789812793201_0010
- Bibcode:
- 2000qucr.conf..262S