Abstract:
Using molecular dynamics and thermal quenching methods on the basis of Voter-Chen version of the embedded-atom method, we have studied the melting behavior of Au-N (N = 12, 13, 14) clusters. This behavior is described in terms of overall and atom resolved root-mean-square bond-length fluctuations, specific-heat, short- and long-time average coordination numbers of each atom and short-time average temperatures of the clusters. The isomer sampling probabilities are obtained from the thermal quenching of the molten clusters, and their energy-spectrum widths are investigated. Phase change of a cluster takes place with the collective and simultaneous motion of all the atoms.