This volume explores in detail the four interrelated branches of the study of surface phenomena-surface thermodynamics, nucleation, diffusion, and fine- particles technology-providing an unusual and comprehensive body of knowledge that will be of interest and practical value to both materials researchers and practising engineers. The growing awareness-since the advent of the space age- among solid-state physicists, metallurgists, ceramists, chemical engineers, and mechanical engineers of the need for a broad interdisciplinary under­ standing of the fundamental phenomena common to all matedals has led in recent years to the development of a new field of scientific investigation, Materials Science. To help promote interest in and con­ tributions to