Vibrational Spectra of Molecules and Atoms on Surfaces II Optical Calculations, Cell Designs, and Results

The classical theory of metallic reflection is applied to the problem of absorption of ir radiation by thin films near the surface of metallic substrates. Amplitudes at the surface are calculated as functions of the incidence angle at 5.0 μ and 500.0 μ. The resultant amplitude near the surface is found to be an appreciable fraction of the incident amplitude, increasing as the wavelength increases. The implications of this result are discussed in the light of earlier work. These calculations are used in determining an experimental cell design. The techniques used in obtaining high-quality spectra with the resulting configuration are discussed. Preliminary spectra are presented.