Toward quantitative STM: Scanning tunneling microscopy study of structure and dynamics of adsorbates on transition metal surfaces

STM was applied to chemisorbed S layers on Re(000l) and Mo(100) surfaces. As function of coverage on both these surfaces, S orders into several different overlayer structures, which have been studied by dynamic LEED. STM images of all these structures were obtained. Approximate location of S atoms in the structures was determined by inspecting the images, especially the regions containing defects. Results are in agreement with LEED except for the p(2{times}l) overlayer of sulfur on Mo(100). The STM images were compared to calculations made with Electron Scattering Quantum Chemistry (ESQC) theory. Variation of contrast in experimental images is explained as a result of changes in STM tip termination structure. STM image contrast is a result of changes in the interference between different paths for the tunneling electrons. The simplest structure on the Mo(100) surface was used as a model for developing and testing a method of quantitative structure determination with the STM. Experimental STM images acquired under a range of tunneling conditions were compared to theoretical calculations of the images as a function of surface structure to determine the structure which best fit. Results matched within approximately 0.1 Angstroms a LEED structural determination. At lower S coverage, diffusion of S atoms over the Re(0001) surface and the lateral interaction between these atoms were investigated by application of a new image analysis technique. The interaction between the S and a coadsorbed CO layer was also studied, and CO was found to induce compression of the S overlayer. A similar result was found for Au deposited on the sulfur covered Mo(100) surface. The interaction between steps on the Mo surface was found to be influenced by S adsorption and this observation was interpreted with the theory of equilibrium crystal shape. Design of an STM instrument which operates at cryogenic and variable sample temperatures, and its future applications, are described