Direct measurement of electron-phonon couplingα2F(ω)using point contacts: Noble metals

Abstract

A new technique of forming tiny point contacts between normal metals is described. By measuring the voltage derivative of the resistance of such contacts at 1.2 K, structure is found which is consistent with bulk-phonon densities of states. Similar results were reported recently by Yanson using a shorted-film technique. When interpreted, the observed structures yield electron-phonon coupling parameters in close agreement with literature values.