Thermoelectric Power of AuCu in Nonequilibrium States

Abstract

Measurements have been made of the resistivity ρ and of the thermoelectric power Q (vs Pt) of samples of AuCu in various nonequilibrium states. One set of samples was disordered by quenching from 750°C; and annealing curves were obtained at 100°, 149°, 198°, and 258°C. A second set was first ordered and then cold worked to essentially complete disorder, and annealing curves taken at 149°C and 258°C. Of the former set, the Q—ρ curves for 100° and 149°C showed a maximum at ρ≈11.5μ ohm cm while none was observed in the curves for any of the other cases. It follows from the detailed results that to specify the state of the alloy it is necessary to give, in addition to ρ and Q, at least one other quantity such as the coefficient of magnetoresistivity.