Based on detailed theoretical analyses, we present, for the first time, direct evidence that the significant interface dipole commonly observed for atoms and molecules physisorbed on metal surfaces originates from exchangelike effects. In the case of Xe, previously proposed contributions from chemical interactions do not play a significant role.

High resolution, vibrationally resolved, near-edge x-ray absorption fine structure ͑NEXAFS͒ spectra at the C 1s and N 1s ionization thresholds of pyridine and deuterated d 5-pyridine in the gas phase have been recorded. The high resolution of 65 meV ͑150 meV͒ at the C s ͑N 1s͒ ionization thresholds reveals vibrational structures in the spectra. Detailed ab initio and density functional theory ͑DFT͒ calculations were performed to interpret the experimental spectra and to assign the observed peaks. In particular we focused on the previously unexplained intensity ratio for the two components of the C 1s→1* transition. For this transition the vibrational structure is included through a linear coupling model in the DFT calculations and leads to the experimentally observed ϳ2:3 intensity ratio between the two * components in the C 1s spectrum rather than the ϳ3:2 ratio obtained without vibrational effects. After inclusion of relaxation effects in the excited states, in addition to the vibrational effects, both theoretical methods yield almost perfect agreement with experiment.

We review the current knowledge of the geometric and electronic structure of oxide surfaces. In particular, material published during the last five years and going beyond the latest book by Henrich and Cox, Surface Science of Oxide Surfaces, is documented. In addition to the discussion of effects on and in bulk oxide single crystal samples, and in fact mainly, we also refer to work on thin oxide films epitaxially grown on metallic substrates. Surface states on oxide surfaces as well as band structure effects are discussed. Reconstruction and the local electronic structure are other aspects covered. We review experimental as well as theoretical approaches. Adsorption on oxide surfaces is an important subject covered in this review, and oxide modification by metal adsorption is also mentioned.

The determination of the structure of inhomogeneous metal-oxide surfaces represents a formidable task. With the present study, we demonstrate that using the binding energy of a probe molecule, CO, is a reliable tool to validate structural models for such complex surfaces. Combining several types of first-principles calculations with advanced molecular beam methods, we are able to provide conclusive evidence that the polar O-terminated surface of ZnO is either reconstructed or hydrogen covered. This finding has important consequences for the ongoing discussion regarding the stabilization mechanism of the electrostatically unstable ("Tasker type 3") polar ZnO surfaces.

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