Question

(a) For the solidification of copper, calculate the critical radius r* and the activation free energy ΔG* if nucleation is homogeneous. For solving this you need to find values for the latent heat of fusion and surface free energy and melting temperature in the literature. Use the supercooling value found in Table 10.1 of the textbook.
(b) Now calculate the number of atoms found in a nucleus of critical size. Assume a lattice parameter of 0.362 nm for solid copper at its melting temperature.

Answer 1