THE CAUSES OF ANOMALOUS ELECTRON-EMISSION OF METALS UNDER PULSED ELECTRIC-HEATING

Based on an experimental investigation of anomalies of electron emissi on of metals in the solid state, observed under conditions of pulsed h eating by a high-density electric current (10(6) A/cm(2)), the model o f nonequilibrium electronic surface states is suggested. The anomalies are explained by decrease of the electron work function, which occurs because of rapid heating of metal on condition of takeoff of emitted electrons. The relaxation of anomalous electron emission to its normal value, registered in the vicinity of the melting point, is associated with the emergence of an ordered structure of metal, characteristic o f highly nonequilibrium open systems. The ''anomalous Schottky effect, '' revealed for both pure and adsorbate-covered surfaces, depends on t he efficiency of takeoff of emitted electrons under concrete condition s of pulsed heating.