Interatomic potential fitted for lead

By using the recently improved generalized-simulated-annealing algorithm an d the molecular dynamics method, we numerically fit an interatomic potentia l for lead. The potential obtained can correctly reproduce many physical pr operties of lead in crystalline and non-crystalline phases. The surface ene rgy and surface relaxation obtained are in good agreement with the experime ntal results. The melting point predicted by this potential is very close t o the experimental data. The present potential is used to study the surface melting and liquid structure; good agreement with experimental results is observed.