A contact between two solid conducting bodies is visualized as a small gap between them. This gap can be described as a potential-hill over which electrons, according to the wave-mechanical theory, can pass even with insufficient kinetic energy. The general expression of the resulting current intensity as function of the potential-difference is obtained and discussed for the case of two identical or different bodies in connection with the resistance of granular structures (thin metallic films) and the rectifying action of certain contacts.

• Received 30 October 1930

DOI:https://doi.org/10.1103/PhysRev.36.1604