Two-Dimensional Crystals

This is a self-contained, tutorial introduction to two-dimensional crystal science and technology. Including concise descriptions of experimental methods and results from fundamental theoretical concepts, this book covers a broad range of two-dimensional structures--from overlayers to freestanding films. All those with an active interest in surface science and statistical physics will find this book to be an essential reference work.

• Presents a coherent overview of experimental methods and theoretical background of two-dimensional crystal physics
• Provides a tutorial overview of continuous melting of two-dimensional crystals, roughening transitions, wetting phenomena, and commensurate-incommensurate transitions

Surface scientists--physicists, materials scientists, and chemists, and those interested in statistical physics

Introduction. Order and Disorder in Two-Dimensional Crystals. Experimental Methods. Atomic Structure of Two-Dimensional Crystals (Experimental Data). Free Two-Dimensional Crystals. Commensurate Crystals. Incommensurate Crystals at T=0. Thermodynamics of the Two-Dimensional Incommensurate Crystal. Solitons as Fermions. Equilibrium Shape of a Crystal and the Roughening Transition. Two-Dimensional Crystals and Surface Defects. From Two to Three Dimensions. Effects of Structure on Physical and Chemical Properties of Two-Dimensional Systems. References. Index.