In this paper phonons in ZnTe/CdSe superlattices with in-plane wave ve
ctors are calculated by using the combination of a first-principles me
thod and an empirical microscopic model. The macroscopic interface mod
es and two types of microscopic interface modes are identified, of whi
ch the second type of microscopic interface mode is a unique property
of superlattices made from two constituent materials not sharing a com
mon atom. These interface modes are discussed in detail in this paper.
(C) 1997 Elsevier Science Ltd.