Dynamics of Surface Atoms and Molecules Under Irradiation

Various classes of interactions between surface species and irradiation are discussed. Electron induced decomposition of halides, photon‐ and electron‐stimulated desorption and photodesorption are emphasized. Experimental work, involving a wide range of techniques, has been carried out on different materials whose surfaces can be subject to those interactions, enhancing our insight into the corresponding processes. The data are described in terms of existing and new mechanisms, while the similarities and differences between the various interactions are pointed out.