The asymptotic interaction between H, H2 or a noble gas atom and the surface of NaCl, KCl or MgO

Abstract

A study is presented of the interaction between the gases H, H2, He, Ne, Ar, Kr, Xe and the surfaces KCl, NaCl, and MgO. First, we calculate the coefficient C3 of the asymptotic interaction V ∼ − C3z−3, using the frequency dependent polarizability and dielectric functions. Next, we show that these results can be accurately predicted with a very simple form of these functions. This allows extension to other systems. We then examine the correlation between C3 and the measured eigenvalue E0 of the most strongly bound vibrational state. Specific attention is paid to the adsorption of He on NaCl, where we attempt to resolve ambiguity about the value of E0. A brief discussion of multilayer He films is provided.