Vol. I. Physical Structure

The primary goal of this book is to summarize the current level of accumulated knowledge about the physical structure of solid surfaces with emphasis on well-defined surfaces at the gas-solid and vacuum-solid interfaces. The intention is not only to provide a standard reference for practitioners, but also to provide a good starting point for scientists who are just entering the field.

This first volume in a new series is appropriately devoted to the physical structure of surfaces, knowledge of which will be essential for a complete understanding of electronic properties and dynamical processes, the topics of the next two volumes in the series.

Vol. II. Electronic Structure

This book is the second volume in the Handbook of Surface Science series and deals with aspects of the electronic structure of surfaces as investigated by means of the experimental and theoretical methods of physics. The importance of understanding surface phenomena stems from the fact that for many physical and chemical phenomena, the surface plays a key role: in electronic, magnetic, and optical devices, in heterogenous catalysis, in epitaxial growth, and the application of protective coatings, for example. Therefore a better understanding and, ultimately, a predictive description of surface and interface properties is vital for the progress of modern technology.

An investigation of surface electronic structure is also central to our understanding of all aspects of surfaces from a fundamental point of view. The chapters presented here review the goals achieved in the field and map out the challenges ahead, both in experiment and theory.

Vol. III. Dynamics

This volume of the Handbook of Surface Science covers all aspects of the dynamics of surface processes. Two dozen world leading experts in this field address the subjects of energy exchange in gas atoms, surface collisions, the rules governing dissociative adsorption on surfaces, the formation of nanostructures on surfaces by self-assembly, and the study of surface phenomena using ultra-fast lasers. The chapters are written for both newcomers to the field as well as researchers.