Abstract

Fundamental problems of cluster physics are discussed. Magic numbers of cluster atoms is the main

property of a cluster as a physical object. The peculiarity of solid-liquid phase transition in a cluster as

a system of a finite number of bound atoms relates to the phase coexistence. This property may lead

to the negative cluster heat capacity near the melting point according to that an increase of the cluster

energy may cause the decrease of the oscillation energy of atoms. Because a large cluster transfers into

a macroscopic particle, the cluster may be used as a model for a macroscopic systems, and within the

framework of this model the character of formation of its glassy-like state is analyzed. The nucleation

processes are considered and lead to formation and growth of clusters from an atomic vapor. The scheme

of cluster growth as a result of particle combustion is considered.