Graduate Texts in Physics: Solid Surfaces, Interfaces and Thin Films

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The fourth edition of this textbook has become a standard reference worldwide in universities and research institutions. Despite surface and interface physics being a mature field, their theoretical concepts and experimental techniques are increasingly crucial due to their significance in nanostructure physics. This branch underpins modern nanoscience, impacting areas such as quantum electronics, catalysis, corrosion, and lubrication, leading to a heightened demand for education in these domains. The book has been thoroughly revised to reflect the latest developments in both fundamental research and practical applications. New material aspects, including group III nitride surfaces and high-k oxide/semiconductor heterostructures, have been added, which are vital for high-speed and high-power electronics, as well as advanced CMOS technology at the nanometer scale. Additionally, the emerging field of spintronics, highlighted by the discovery of giant magnetoresistance (GMR), necessitates a deeper exploration of anisotropy effects in thin magnetic films. The development of purely electrical spin switching devices, leveraging spin effects instead of semiconductor space charge layers, is essential for advancing high-speed, low-power spintronics. This new edition addresses these topics in relation to GMR, ensuring a comprehensive understanding of current advancements.