Simple theories for simple metals: Face-dependent surface energies and work functions

Abstract

The stabilized jellium model, which preserves the simplicity of ordinary jellium while accounting for discrete-ion effects in an average way, provides an “intrinsic” surface energy and work function for each metal, determined by the mean valence electron density of the bulk. The liquid drop model asserts a dependence of the surface energy and work function on the atomic corrugation of the exposed crystal face. Together, these models are shown to make simple, quantitative predictions in good agreement with the results of all-electron calculations by Skriver and Rosengaard. Also discussed are the surface stress and the location of the image plane for stabilized jellium.