After successful completion of the course, students are able to apply the discussed topics in an independent and sustainable manner, in order to solve fundamental and technological problems in "Interfaces" research.
The course provides an introduction into the basics of chemistry and physics of interfaces and surfaces on an atomic/molecular level from the point of view of materials and surface science, materials chemistry und atomic scale catalysis. Basics of chemistry and physics (bachelor-level) particularly physical chemistry II (quantum mechanics) are necessary. The topics of the course will be discussed in close connection with actual research topics. Topics 1) Definition and general description of interfaces, microscopic and macroscopic properties of interfaces and solid state surfaces. 2) Geometric and electronic structure of surfaces. 3) Experimental studies of surfaces, major surface-sensitive analysis and microscopy methods based on photons, electrons, ions. 4) Basics of an atom-by-atom analysis and nanomanipulation. 5) Important physical/chemical surface processes: adsorption, diffusion, desorption. 6) Surface reactions on metallic and oxidic surfaces: catalysis on an atomic scale.