The anomalous skin effect and the reflectivity of metals: II. comparison between theoretical and experimental optical properties

Abstract

It is shown that the observed optical properties of metals are in much better agreement with theoretical values taking into account the anomalous nature of the skin effect and assuming diffuse reflection of electrons at the metallic surface than with those assuming specular electron reflection, and in discord with the predictions of standard theory ignoring the anomalous nature of the skin effect. The metals discussed are Na, Cu, Ag, Au, Pt, W, Al, Pb and Sn, principal attention being paid to the infra-red, so as to avoid complications due to the photoelectric absorption bands normally present in the visible and ultra-violet. Suggestions are made for future experimental work.