27 research outputs found
Orientation of Phenylphosphonic Acid Self-Assembled Monolayers on a Transparent Conductive Oxide: A Combined NEXAFS, PM-IRRAS, and DFT Study
Self-assembled monolayers (SAMs) of dipolar phosphonic
acids can
tailor the interface between organic semiconductors and transparent
conductive oxides. When used in optoelectronic devices such as organic
light emitting diodes and solar cells, these SAMs can increase current
density and photovoltaic performance. The molecular ordering and conformation
adopted by the SAMs determine properties such as work function and
wettability at these critical interfaces. We combine angle-dependent
near-edge X-ray absorption fine structure (NEXAFS) spectroscopy and
polarization modulation infrared reflection absorption spectroscopy
(PM-IRRAS) to determine the molecular orientations of a model phenylphosphonic
acid on indium zinc oxide, and correlate the resulting values with
density functional theory (DFT). We find that the SAMs are surprisingly
well-oriented, with the phenyl ring adopting a well-defined tilt angle
of 12â16° from the surface normal. We find quantitative
agreement between the two experimental techniques and density functional
theory calculations. These results not only provide a detailed picture
of the molecular structure of a technologically important class of
SAMs, but also resolve a long-standing ambiguity regarding the vibrational-mode
assignments for phosphonic acids on oxide surfaces, thus improving
the utility of PM-IRRAS for future studies
Urban Studentsâ Perceptions of Teachers: Views of Students in General, Special, and Honors Education
Studentsâ satisfaction with school experiences has been linked to their sense of belongingness, connection to school, and achievement. Though the extant research addresses studentsâ perceptions of school climate and sense of belonging, there is a paucity of research about studentsâ views of teacherâstudent interactions. Five hundred and seventy-seven students from one ethnically and academically diverse urban high school were surveyed and interviewed about the nature of teacher talk with students. Findings from this mixed-methods investigation indicate students from general, special, and honors programs experience a wide range of interactions based on academic services received, gender, and ethnicity. More frequent perceived punitive feedback was reported by all students in special education as well as males in general and honors education programs, while Hispanic students indicated a greater frequency of perceived supportive feedback. Findings also reflect a wide range of attitudes and feelings about teachers, the educational system, and learning