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THE WORK FUNCTION OF THORIUM

Journal Article · · Proc. Phys. Soc. (London)

The average work functions of vacuum-deposited thorium films and of thorium foil were measured by the Kelvin contact-potential-difference method, under ultra-high vacuum conditions. A reproducible value of 3.455 plus or minus 0.012 ev was found for the work functron of the vacuum-deposited films. In the case of the foil, the work function increased continuously with the duration of electron bombardment, eventually reaching a limitlng value of 3.728 plus or minus 0.010 ev after ninety-seven hours of bombardment. Reasons were discussed for identrfying this value with the average work function of well-aged, polycry stalline thorium. (auth)

Research Organization:
Atomic Energy Research Establishment, Harwell, Berks, Eng.
NSA Number:
NSA-16-025809
OSTI ID:
4811568
Report Number(s):
AERE-R-3910
Journal Information:
Proc. Phys. Soc. (London), Journal Name: Proc. Phys. Soc. (London) Vol. Vol: 80
Country of Publication:
United Kingdom
Language:
English

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