Physics of Crystal Growth This text introduces the physical principles of how and why crystals grow. The first three chapters recall the fundamental properties of crystal surfaces at equilibrium. The next six chapters describe simple models and basic concepts of crystal growth including diffusion, thermal smoothing of a surface, and applica- tions to semiconductors. Following chapters examine more complex topics such as kinetic roughness, growth instabilities, and elastic effects. A brief closing chapter looks back at the crucial contributions of crystal growth in electronics during this century. The book focuses on growth using molecular beam epitaxy. Throughou the emphasis is on the role played by modern statistical physics. Informative appendices, interesting exercises and an extensive bibliography reinforce the text. This book will be of interest to graduate students and researchers in statistical physics, materials science, surface physics and solid state physics. It will also be suitable for use as a coursebook at beginning graduate level. www.cambridge.org © in this web service Cambridge University Press Cambridge University Press 978-0-521-55198-4 - Physics of Crystal Growth Alberto Pimpinelli and Jacques Villain Frontmatter More information