Decay of electronic excitations in bulk metals and at surfaces

We present a brief survey of the contemporary state of theoretical study of quasiparticles (excited electrons and holes) dynamics in bulk metals and at metal surfaces. Quasiparticle decay mechanisms are discussed in terms of electron–electron (e–e) and electron–phonon (e–ph) interactions. The e–ph decay channel is shown to be important for all materials considered. It is especially important for systems with the thickness of one monolayer. In the e–e decay channel the quasiparticle decay can be realized via one-electron transfer processes, via creation of electron–hole pairs, and via plasmon excitation. In ferromagnetic systems the electron (hole) decay via the Stoner pair excitation or/and magnon excitation is made possible.