A stochastic theory for clustering of quenched-in vacancies—III. A continuum model

In continuation of our earlier investigation on the problem of clustering of quenched-in vacancies reported earlier, starting from the discrete model, we derive a second order partial differential equation for the growth of the clusters. The solution of this equation is shown to be in reasonable agreement with the solution of the discrete model proposed earlier. However, the total number of vacancies is not conserved under slightly less stringent conditions than the conditions dictated by the solution of the discrete model, suggesting a slightly modified differential equation for the concentration of the clusters. The solution of this modified differential equation has the required properties. The leading part of the distribution when transferred into the space designating the linear dimension of the cluster has a Gaussian form. This feature is shown to be consistent with writing a Langevin equation with the linear dimension of the cluster taking the role of the random variable. This permits the identification of the smallness of parameter. An alternate formulation is also given where the concentration of the vacancies stored in a cluster of a certain size is considered as the dynamical variable. The solution obtained in this alternate formulation is shown to be consistent with the other formulation.