Theory of diffusion in premelting systems

Summary The diffusion in premelting films and surfaces is described by the Fokker-Planck equation with a periodic potential whose amplitude depends on the temperature and vanishes at the bulk melting temperature. The self-part of the dynamic structure factor is calculated and the results are compared with neutron scattering data from CH₄ premelting films adsorbed on MgO and with atom scattering data from the (110) surface of Pb. In honour of Prof. Fausto Fumi on the occasion of his retirement from teaching.