Fluid dynamical model for metal clusters

Abstract

We apply a semiclassical model to study the collective modes of valence electrons in metal clusters and in the metal surrounding a cavity (void).

We assume a sharp profile for the equilibrium density of the valence electrons. Although in the equilibrium state all the valence electrons are in the region occupied by the jellium, the valence electrons are allowed to move out of this region when undergoing collective oscillations.

The hydrodynamical description of both volume and surface modes in metal clusters and cavities is considered. A unified formalism is proposed which yields the well-known Mie or Natta surface modes, depending on the boundary conditions.