Molecular orientation on metal surfaces by electrostatic interactions: The adsorption of cyclopentene on a stepped (221) silver surface

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Abstract
Step defects at metal surfaces are known to cause a local dipole at the surface, thereby creating an enhanced surfaceelectric field in their vicinity. Using the electron stimulated desorption ion angular distribution (ESDIAD) technique, cyclopentene is observed to be ordered by the interaction of its permanent dipole moment with the electrostatic field at the steps on the Ag (221) surface. This ordering is not seen for cyclopentene on Ag (111). The experimental results agree with estimates of the interactional energy of the dipole with the electric field at the steps, and the direction of orientation is consistent with calculations of the sign of the cyclopentene dipole moment.