Generalized Langevin equation approach for atom/solid-surface scattering: Collinear atom/harmonic chain model

Abstract

Zwanzig's approach to inelastic atom/harmonic chain scattering is recast in a form which suggests generalization to atomic collisions with real solid surfaces. We reduce the infinite set of equations of motion for the impinging atom and harmonic chain to a pair of equations of motion. These equations describe the collision of the incident particle with a generalized Langevin oscillator. The first and second fluctuation-dissipation theorems for the Langevin oscillator are verified and their implications for the scattering process are discussed.