Vacancy noise measurements in metals: Calculation of the power spectrum

Fluctuations in the number of vacancies in metals in thermal equilibrium lead to resistivity fluctuations. Analysis of these fluctuations permits measurement of both formation and migration enthalpy of the vacancies. The power spectrum of the fluctuations is calculated using a series of statistically independent pulses. It can be derived from the diffusion equation for any geometry of the vacancy sinks. Vacancy diffusion to the surface of a thin plate or of a sphere are treated as examples. The measurability of vacancy noise is assessed. It should also be possible to measure vacancy noise during irradiation. It is predicted that correlated vacancy creation, which may occur during irradiation, will cause an increase in the power spectrum.