Applied Surface Science, Vol.400, 71-76, 2017
Mechanic-electrical transformations in the Kelvin method
To explain the initiation mechanism of alternating current in an electric circuit containing the dynamic capacitor a model of mechanic-electrical transformation is suggested to use. In such a model, electric charges disposed between the capacitor plates serve as a cause of measured signal in contrast to the contact potential difference, which is considered as the main base in the Kelvin's model. If one of the plates moves periodically, then the conditions of the charges screening are changed and thereby the capacitor recharging current is arise. The measuring is based on compensation of the recharging current by current, which generated by a source of electromotive force (EMF). The compensation voltage depends on both the distribution of ions or dipoles over the studied surface and the charges creating the surface potential barrier. This voltage is independent on the bulk electro-physical characteristics of a solid. (C) 2016 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.
Keywords:Kelvin method;Contact potential difference;Work function;Mechanic-electrical transformer;Semiconductor surface