ON θ VALUES IN METALS

Abstract

Following a discussion of specific heat theories, it is suggested that, despite its limitations, the Debye theory is the most useful representation for general analysis. Four methods of calculating θD, the Debye characteristic temperature, are presented; specific heat data of lithium, sodium, and potassium are then analyzed and also compared with similar calculations of θR from resistance measurements made over a wide temperature range. It is shown that more realistic values of θ are obtained when θ is recognized as a temperature-dependent parameter in the mathematical derivation of the relevant equations. It appears that a considerable amount of useful information may be obtained from data analysis in this way.