Theory 08/Surface Science
Sticking Is an Energy Ratio
The claim
The sticking probability of a molecule on a surface depends on the ratio of its translational energy to the surface phonon energy rather than on surface temperature alone.
01The mechanism
Accommodation requires energy exchange with the lattice; when the ratio is wrong, the molecule retains enough energy to desorb before equilibrating.
02Predictions
- P1Sticking should depend on the energy ratio.
- P2Temperature alone should mispredict at equal ratio.
03Refutation
Sticking tracking surface temperature would remove the ratio.