Through extending a model for size-dependent glass transition temperature (Tg), the size-dependent Curie temperature of low-dimensional ferromagnetic metals (particles, wires and thin films) with different morphologies in full size range (Tc) is modeled. Based on energetic and thermodynamic approaches, the critical size and morphology of the metals are considered. It is found that Tc drops as size decreases, which corresponds to the experimental results of Ni particles and wires, as well as Fe, Co and Ni thin films.

Undercooling, superheating, surface melting temperatures and melting enthalpies of low-dimensional In crystals are predicted by a unified model. A good agreement between the model predictions and experimental results are found.

A simple formula without any free parameter is established to estimate surface energies of elemental metals of low-index surfaces, which is developed by modifying the classic broken-bond rule. The predicted results of the formula for 52 A1-A4 and sc elemental crystals are in agreement with experimental results and the first-principles calculations although deviations are present for several divalent sp metals.

A model to determine surface stress (f) and crystal–liquid interface energy (γ) of (1 0 0) face of NaCl type alkali halides without free parameters is established. While the predicted γ values are thermodynamically reasonable, the model predictions on f are in agreement with other theoretical calculations for (100) face of NaCl type alkali halides.

A model for the size dependence of the Curie temperature Tc of perovskite ferroelectric particles without any free adjustable parameters has been developed. The model predicts that Tc decreases with decreasing particle size. The predictions of the model are in agreement with experimental results for PbTiO3 and BaTiO3.