Cluster linetics on surfaces involving addition and decomposition via monomers

Abstract

In an attempt to understand certain features in recent experiments by Klas et al. on the clustering of indium atoms deposited on copper surfaces we study simplified models for the kinetics of clustering via exchange of monomer particles. First we present Monte Carlo simulation results for a two-dimensional diffusion-reaction model. Then we considcr an appropriate set of rate equations, which is solved analytically in certain limiting cases. There is good overall agreement between the analytic results, the simulations and the experimental observations.