THE INITIAL GROWTH MODE OF NI DEPOSITED ON A AG(001) SURFACE

The initial growth mode of Ni deposited on a Ag(001) surface at room t emperature was studied by analyzing LEED (low-energy electron diffract ion) I-V (intensity versus beam voltage) characteristics in an average t-matrix approximation (ATA), Substantial alloying of Ni in the form of clusters with the hosting Ag atoms was inferred. To gain a detailed idea of the alloying behavior of Ni, Monte Carlo simulation was perfo rmed with the Hamiltonian based on the Ising model. The formation of t he Ni clusters of various sizes near the surface is also predicted.