A MODEL FOR THE ICE-VAPOR INTERFACE AT EQUILIBRIUM

We use a mean-field lattice-gas model to describe the equilibrium ice/ vapor interface. The numerical values of the parameters in the model a re taken from laboratory experiment and molecular dynamics calculation s. The model predicts the existence at equilibrium of a layer of admol ecules at the ice surface; it is only a few molecules thick because of the very strong water-water interactions. Sharp transitions in layer thickness occur at well-defined temperatures on each crystal face.