Move
the mouse over different DSf / k ratios to see a
schematic representation of this effect
The probability of an interfacial molecule being melted off, i.e. the fraction of this
type of molecule which will be detached, is given by a Boltzmann expression . Comparison of
these probabilities gives a picture of the smoothness of the interface. For example, a
smooth interface will be one for which there are few remaining molecules with n=1
and many with n=5, i.e. for which this ratio is large
Using the expression DSf
= DHf
/ Tf, and assuming that the temperature
is close to Tf,
this ratio can be written as .
A high value (³10)
for this ratio, obtained when DSf
/ k is greater than about 5-6, will give a smooth interface.
Move
the mouse over different DSf / k ratios to see a
schematic representation of this effect
. Comparison of
these probabilities gives a picture of the smoothness of the interface. For example, a
smooth interface will be one for which there are few remaining molecules with n=1
and many with n=5, i.e. for which this ratio is large
. 
