Statistical properties of steps on crystal surfaces

Abstract
We examine the equilibrium properties of steps on crystal surfaces using mean field theory and the more accurate pair approximation. The solid‐on‐solid model of surface orientations vicinal to the simple cubic (100) face is employed in all calculations. The pair approximation for the excess energy of an isolated step is in good agreement with recent Monte Carlo simulations. Also presented for the isolated step are excess values of entropy, density of atoms with the coordination of kink sites, and the free energy. In each case two step orientations are considered. Interactions between steps on vicinal surfaces are discussed, and a section of the γ plot (surface free energy as a function of surface orientation) is calculated.

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