Implications of random-matrix theory for terrace-width distributions on vicinal surfaces: improved approximations and exact results

Quantitative measurement of the equilibrium terrace-width distribution of vicinal surfaces enables detailed investigation of step–step interactions. Using results from random-matrix theory, we point out simple analytical expressions that assist in this process, improving considerably over standard techniques and allowing assessment of weak repulsions, heretofore inaccessible except by indirect methods. This approach suggests new properties for experimentalists to measure and, by calibration with exact results, provides insights into controversies about assessing the interaction strength. © 1999 Elsevier Science B.V. All rights reserved.