An yttria-stabilized cubic crystal ZrO2(100) surface was studied by lo
w-energy diffraction and electron energy loss spectroscopy (EELS). The
deposition of Cu onto this surface was followed by Auger electron spe
ctroscopy and EELS. The results show that Cu on the surface exhibits V
olmer-Weber mode growth at room temperature. The EEL spectra from clea
n and Cu-covered surfaces are discussed on the basis of the electronic
band structure.