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Theory of inelastic lifetimes of low-energy electrons in metals

P. M. Echenique·J. M. Pitarke·E. V. Chulkov·A. Rubio
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Abstract

Electron dynamics in the bulk and at the surface of solid materials are well known to play a key role in a variety of physical and chemical phenomena. In this article we describe the main aspects of the interaction of low-energy electrons with solids, and report extensive calculations of inelastic lifetimes of both low-energy electrons in bulk materials and image-potential states at metal surfaces. New calculations of inelastic lifetimes in a homogeneous electron gas are presented, by using various well-known representations of the electronic response of the medium. Band-structure calculations, which have been recently carried out by the authors and collaborators, are reviewed, and future work is addressed.

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P. M. Echenique, J. M. Pitarke, E. V. Chulkov, A. Rubio. 1999-08-09. Theory of inelastic lifetimes of low-energy electrons in metals. https://doi.org/10.1016/s0301-0104(99)00313-4

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