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Properties of α-monoclinic selenium

Citation

Taynai, Joseph Dean (1970) Properties of α-monoclinic selenium. Dissertation (Ph.D.), California Institute of Technology. doi:10.7907/2T9A-6F21. https://resolver.caltech.edu/CaltechTHESIS:10072014-094710539

Abstract

The growth of bulky and platelet shaped α-monoclinic crystals is discussed. A simple method is devised for identifying and orienting them.

The density, previously in disagreement with the value calculated from x-ray studies, is carefully redetermined, and found to be in good agreement with the latter.

The relative dielectric constant is determined, an effort being made to eliminate errors inherent in previous measurements, which have not been in agreement. A two parameter model is derived which explains the anisotropy in the relative dielectric constant of orthorhombic sulfur, which is also composed of 8-atom puckered ring molecules. The model works less well for α-monoclinic selenium. The relative dielectric constant anisotropy is quite noticeable, being 6.06 along the crystal b axis, and 8.52-8.93 normal to the axis.

Thin crystal platelets of α-monoclinic selenium (less than 1µ thick) are used to extend optical transmission measurements up to 4.5eV. Previously the measurements extended up to 2.1 eV, limited by the thickness of the available crystals. The absorption edge is at 2.20 eV, with changes in slope of the absorption coefficient occurring at 2.85 eV and 3.8 eV. Measurement of transmission through solutions of selenium in CS_2 and trichlorethylene yield an absorption edge of 2.75 eV. There is evidence the selenium exists in solution partly as Se_8 rings, the building block of monoclinic selenium. Transmission is measured at low temperatures (80°K and 10°K) using the platelets. The absorption edge is at 2.38 eV and 2.39 eV, respectively, for the two temperatures. Measurements at low temperatures with polarized and unpolarized light reveal interesting absorption anisotropy near 2.65 eV.

Item Type:Thesis (Dissertation (Ph.D.))
Subject Keywords:Electrical engineering
Degree Grantor:California Institute of Technology
Division:Engineering and Applied Science
Major Option:Electrical Engineering
Thesis Availability:Public (worldwide access)
Research Advisor(s):
  • Nicolet, Marc-Aurele (advisor)
  • Mead, Carver (co-advisor)
Thesis Committee:
  • Unknown, Unknown
Defense Date:18 November 1969
Record Number:CaltechTHESIS:10072014-094710539
Persistent URL:https://resolver.caltech.edu/CaltechTHESIS:10072014-094710539
DOI:10.7907/2T9A-6F21
Default Usage Policy:No commercial reproduction, distribution, display or performance rights in this work are provided.
ID Code:8671
Collection:CaltechTHESIS
Deposited By: Bianca Rios
Deposited On:07 Oct 2014 17:19
Last Modified:09 Nov 2022 19:20

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