Observation of zero-dimensional states in a one-dimensional electron interferometer

B. J. van Wees; L. P. Kouwenhoven; C. J. P. M. Harmans; J. G. Williamson; C. E. Timmering; M. E. I. Broekaart; C. T. Foxon; J. J. Harris

doi:10.1103/PhysRevLett.62.2523

Observation of zero-dimensional states in a one-dimensional electron interferometer

B. J. van Wees, L. P. Kouwenhoven, C. J. P. M. Harmans, J. G. Williamson, C. E. Timmering, M. E. I. Broekaart, C. T. Foxon, and J. J. Harris

Phys. Rev. Lett. 62, 2523 – Published 22 May 1989

Abstract

We have studied the electron transport in a one-dimensional electron interferometer. It consists of a disk-shaped two-dimensional electron gas, to which quantum point contacts are attached. Discrete zero-dimensional states are formed due to constructive interference of electron waves traveling along the circumference of the disk in one-dimensional magnetic edge channels. The conductance shows pronounced Aharonov-Bohm–type oscillations, with maxima occurring whenever the energy of a zero-dimensional state coincides with the Fermi energy. Good agreement with theory is found, taking energy averaging into account.