TIME-INDEPENDENT THEORY OF QUANTUM SCATTERING FROM DISORDERED SURFACES

We review the projected continuum approach to quantum scattering from disordered surfaces, placing it in the context of previous time-independent and time-dependent approaches. The method provides a one K-vector expansion of the scattering with a coherent field potential average, which leads to a unitary set of equations describing specular and non-specular scattering. Of particular significance is the capability to describe sticking due to surface disorder, which increases at low collision energies. Application to a model partial monolayer of molecular adsorbate is made, illustrating the efficiency and usefulness of the approach tor study of finite coverage, disordered adsorbate systems.