Work Functions of Gas-Coated Tungsten and Silver Surfaces

Abstract

The average electronic work functions of tungsten and silver surfaces, subjected to glow discharges in various gases (He, A, H₂, N₂, O₂, freon‐12) and to water vapor, have been determined by Oatley's magnetron contact potential method. Oxygen and freon‐12 produced increases in work functions in excess of 1 ev, whereas nitrogen and particularly hydrogen caused decreases of the order of 0.5 ev. The inert gases and water vapor produced relatively little changes. The history and treatment of the surfaces is described, and the data presented have been found to be reproducible.