Nucleation: free energy of small clusters

摘要

Recent theoretical developments ofcrystal nucleation are critically reviewed with theemphasis placed on modelling the properties of smallclusters. Predictions for the size and temperaturedependence of the interfacial free energy byphenomenological and density-functional theories arediscussed in the light of experiments and computersimulations. Various models suggest an absoluteinstability of the undercooled liquid far below themelting point and of the superheated crystal far abovethe melting point. The experiments and computersimulations are consistent with this picture.