Adsorbate induced electric field

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mhyman · #1 Post by **mhyman** » Thu Mar 30, 2006 9:22 pm

I'm wondering if it's possible to calculate the electric field induced by adsorption on a surface. For instance,

K adsorbed on a Pt surface. The K dumps a large amount of charge in the metal. What is the magnitude of the electric field that is created?

Thanks,
Matt

tjf · #2 Post by **tjf** » Fri Mar 31, 2006 12:21 pm

I think you have to be more rigourous with your definitions. What magnetic field? The maximum field in the region of the adsorbate or something? There will be no net field at a distance.

mhyman · #3 Post by **mhyman** » Fri Mar 31, 2006 4:45 pm

I was referring to an electric field, not a magnetic field. And in the absence of a dielectric, the field is the same at any distance from a surface. Obviously there will be variation along the surface plane because of the adsorbate, but an average electric field magnitude would be suitable.