Thin film deposition is a broad and burgeoning field, with applications ranging from razor blade coatings to quantum-well lasers. However, much of the available thin film literature is based on empirical knowledge, and focuses only on specific processes or applications. This volume rectifies that situation, offering a complete description of the theory and technology of thin film deposition. The book"s broad perspective gives readers the tools to objectively evaluate and choose the appropriate thin film process for a specific application. This indispensable volume also includes a complete list of symbols and an extensive index.