Theoretical Investigation of Homogenous Nucleation

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ABSTRACT CTS-9413301 X. C. Zeng, U. of Nebraska, Lincoln The objective is to develop a nucleation theory based on statistical mechanics (density-functional approach and the Monte Carlo simulation) which would agree with the experimental facts previously unexplained by other nucleation theories. The rate of nucleation in both gases (droplet formation) and liquids (cavitation, boiling), as well as related characteristics such as critical supersaturation and the tensile strength, will be determined . Five types of fluids systems will be investigated to test the theory. Together with Dr. D. V. Oxtoby (University of Chicago), the P. I. has proposed an original approach, which may lead to fundamental advances in the field of nucleation. The nucleation theory to be developed in this project has relevance on the formation of hazardous aerosols, photochemical smog, acid rain, green house effect in the troposphere, cloud formation and in other areas of environmental science. A second area of relevance is in materials synthesis form aerosol precursors. ***