The primary objective of the proposed research is to study the structure and dynamics of chemisorption through He atom scattering on crystalline surfaces using the relatively new experimental technique, He atom-surface spectroscopy (HAS). Surfaces formed when a series of long-chained hydrocarbons, alkylthiols, are chemisorbed onto a gold (111) surface are to be examined. The low energy He atoms, since they do not react with or charge the surface, are the probe of choice for these systems. An understanding of the structure and dynamics of the surfaces to be studied has implications in many areas including catalysis, models for biological interfaces and membranes, corrosion protection, and adhesion problems. The project furthers VPW program objectives to provide opportunities for women to advance their careers in science or engineering through research, and to encourage other women to pursue careers in these areas through the investigators' enhanced visibility as role models on the host campuses. In this project, the proposed activities which contribute to the second objective include: organizing a Garvin Medalist Symposium series of outstanding women chemists; serving as a guest lecturer in "Science, Technology, and Society" course; and interacting with the HAS research group, an interdisciplinary group, through daily research contact and formal seminar presentations.
