the subject of theoretical and experimental scrutiny for many years, especially
because of their use in the design and fabrication of novel nanodevices.
Despite continued progress in our understanding of how surfaces evolve and fluctuate,
many issues still remain unresolved. This RIT will focus on physical and mathematical
models for crystal surfaces and their various theoretical implications. Models include
lattice gas, step-continuum and standard continuum (PDEs). Connections between
these models will be explored. Emphasis will be placed on both deterministic and
stochastic aspects.
TOPICS: Introduction to basic models: lattice, steps (BCF theory), PDEs.
Connections: Deterministic aspects: from lattice models to steps: e.g. step stiffness,
key energies, electronic and elastic effects; from steps to PDEs for surface height;
boundary conditions; kinetic theories for steps; space correlation functions.
Stochastic aspects: Langevin and Fokker-Planck equations for step fluctuations;
time correlation functions; relaxation times; connections to Random Matrix Theory.
CREDIT:
Students can take 1-3 units of credit by attending
this RIT, and
studying and presenting a paper on an acceptable topic agreed on with one
of the organizers,
or discussing original research.
For details, contact one of the Organizers (above).
LECTURES: Thursdays, 5p.m.-6p.m. (unless noted otherwise); Room: MATH (TBA)
CONFIRMED
SPEAKERS (so far):
T. L. Einstein (Physics), D. Margetis (Math. & IPST),
J. D. Weeks (Chemistry & IPST), A. Tzavaras (Math.)
Schedule for Fall 2007:
(talks will be posted on a week-by-week basis)
September 6,
5:00pm-6:00pm: Introduction to crystal surfaces,
by T. E. Einstein
September 20,
**SPECIAL TIME: 5:30pm-6:15pm**: Modeling the kinetics
and dynamics of crystal surfaces,
by D. Margetis
September 20, **SPECIAL TIME: 5:30pm-6:15pm**: Modeling the kinetics and dynamics of crystal surfaces, by D. Margetis
