On the size-dependence of melting temperature

The problem of the effect of particle size on melting temperature is treated theoretically using the methods of classical thermodynamics, The energetics and physical insight bearing on this problem are discussed thoroughly in order to develop a physically meaningful definition of the melting temperature for these systems, The melting cri~erion is indicated by the physical discussion as essentially a nucleation and growth criterion, Good overall agreement is found between quantitative predictions and experimental results.

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