A new pairwise interaction potential of atoms of a crystal with those of a liquid phase is offered. The potential is widely applicable because it describes well real processes. On the base of the potential a new model of crystal growth process has been developed. This model describes growth of A(III)B(V) crystals from solution-melts. The model is plain and has simple physical meaning. With the use of this model the values of crystal growth rate and diffusion constant of B-V atoms in the liquid have been determined for the initial stage of the crystal growth process. (C) 2004 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.