Oscillatory driving of crystal surfaces: a route to controlled pattern formation.

Abstract

We show that the oscillatory driving of crystal surfaces can induce pattern formation or smoothening. Depending on driving conditions, step bunching and meandering, mound formation, or surface smoothening may be seen in the presence of a kinetic asymmetry at the steps or kinks. We employ a step model to calculate the induced mass flux along misoriented surfaces, which accounts for surface dynamics and stability. Slope selection, surface metastability, and frequency-dependent surface stability are found. Quantitative predictions for pattern formation on metal surfaces in an electrolyte are provided.