Efficient kinematical simulation of reflection high-energy electron diffraction streak patterns for crystal surfaces Original Research Article

An efficient program with a user-friendly graphical interface has been developed for simulating reflection high-energy electron diffraction patterns obtained on crystal surfaces. The calculations are based on a kinematical approach which considers single electron scattering events at the surface. This time-efficient approach is in most cases sensitive enough for distinguishing different structural models, even if they differ very subtly. The results are presented in realistic two-dimensional density plots which can be directly compared to experimental observations. This program provides a useful tool in studying different structural models for crystal surfaces.