Abstract
The mechanism and the kinetics of the short time metal deposition and dissolution has been analyzed on the basis of a model which includes transfer of ions across the double layer, diffusion of adions over the metal surface, and incorporation of ions into the lattice at steps one atom high. It is shown that it is possible to obtain data on the exchange current density of the reaction and on the equilibrium adion concentration from the initial portion of the potentiostatic transients. Steady‐state current density is analyzed. Conditions necessary for the surface diffusion of adions or for the transfer of ions across the double layer to be the rate‐controlling step in the over‐all reaction are formulated and discussed. Current density at each potential depends on distances between the steps suitable for the incorporation of adions into the lattice, which distances are related in turn to the dislocation density. On an ideal surface, without nucleation, the steady‐state current density should be zero. Conditions for two‐dimensional nucleation are analyzed and discussed.