Theory of Ultrasonic Attenuation In Metals Due to Interactions With Conduction Electrons

Abstract

<p> Working within the framework of the linearized Boltzmann equation for the conduction electrons the existing theoretical treatments of ultrasonic attenuation in metals are extended to include realistic descriptions of the electronic structure and electron-lattice interaction. A variational solution of the Boltzmann equation which allows the inclusion of phonon drag effects is derived. An anisotropic scattering time solution is also presented. Both of these solutions are applied to calculation of the attenuation coefficient in pure metals and dilute alloys. </p> <p> The theory of the effects of electron-electron collisions on the ultrasonic attenuation in metals is also examined. </p>