The Vibrational Frequency Distribution of Graphite: I. Out-of-plane Modes of a Single Layer

Using a potential energy function derived from molecular spectra to describe the out-of-plane vibrations of a graphite crystal, the distribution function for these vibrations is calculated for an infinite, single layer. This distribution function is different from certain other calculated distributions which use other types of potential energy function. The reason for this difference is analysed, and application is made to the contribution of these modes of vibration to the specific heat of graphite.