Zipper model for the melting of thin films

We propose an alternative model to Lindemann's criterion for melting that explains the melting of thin films on the basis of a molecular zipper-like mechanism. Using this model, a unique criterion for melting is obtained. We compared the results of the proposed model with experimental data of melting points and heat of fusion for many materials and obtained interesting results. The interesting thing reported here is how complex physics problems can sometimes. be modeled with simple objects around us that seemed to have no correlation. This kind of approach is sometimes very important in physics education and should always be taught to undergraduate or graduate students.