Atomic Level Studies of Step Dynamics in Homogeneous Crystal Growth

Step dynamics is one of the most important processes that governs atom transport and the resulting growth of a crystal. Our lack of knowledge of such processes is a significant void in our understanding of solid state surface physics. This is not only true from the viewpoint of pure science. The growth of crystalline materials, such as metals, from their vapor is used in numerous technological applications, including the microfabrication of microprocessors, chemical sensors, and biological sensors [1].