Internal structure and two-dimensional order of monolayer C60 molecules on gold substrate

Abstract

Monolayer coverages of C₆₀ on a gold substrate have been studied using scanning tunneling microscopy. The images reveal various packing arrangements and reproducible intramolecular contrasts of the C₆₀ molecules. We find that approximately every other carbon atom is highlighted on the π‐electron surface of the molecule as a result of a preferential electron transfer from the gold substrate, in agreement with a theoretical analysis of the high‐lying π‐electron density of a C₆₀ molecule adsorbed on metallic surfaces.