The linear coefficient of thermal expansion of the fcc metals Cu, Ag, Au, Ni, Pd, and Pt are computed using the semiempirical embedded-atom method to determine the energetics. The results are in good agreement with experiment. The importance of including the equation of state in the determination of the empirical functions is discussed.

• Received 24 June 1988

DOI:https://doi.org/10.1103/PhysRevB.38.12643