Equations of state for solids under strong compression

Abstract

Abstract Various approaches for the representation of equation of state data for solids under strong compression are discussed. The theoretical background for reasonable extrapolations to higher pressures and higher as well as lower temperatures is described. The distinction between ideal, regular, and anomalous behaviour allows to gain deeper insight into the electronic changes occurring in various solids under strong compression. The discussion of experimental data for various regular solids leads finally to an estimate of the accuracy obtained in the present realisation of a practical pressure scale based on equation of state measurements.