The adsorption of the inert gases on sodium chloride and potassium chloride

The adsorption of the inert gases on the (100) face of sodium chloride and potassium chloride is studied to determine the probable state of the adsorbed atom. This involved a detailed analysis of the interatomic forces that are important in physical adsorption and limiting potential models are suggested for the determination of the gas atom–solid potential energy field. Expressions for the determination of the electrostatic interaction of the adsorbed atom with the surface are also presented. The effect of allowing the ideal (100) surface to relax to its equilibrium conformation is found to be appreciable for the interaction or argon and krypton with (100) sodium chloride but less important for their interaction with (100) potassium chloride. The changes in adsorption properties occurring because of surface relaxation are investigated using the hindered translation model. [Continues.]