THERMODYNAMIC THEORY OF NUCLEATION ON CHARGED-PARTICLES

A complete system of thermodynamic fundamental equations for heterogeneous systems with curved interfaces in an external electric field has been derived. Equations have been obtained for the dependence of the surface tension, surface potential, phase transition temperature, equilibrium chemical potential, and vapor pressure on surface curvature and the value of an external field. Calculation of the work of nucleation on charged particles and the phase transition activation energy has been carried out. When applied to the water condensation process, the results obtained show that negative condensation centers are much more active than positive ones. The significance of the theory presented for the understanding of atmospheric processes has been briefly discussed. © 1979.