Josephson-current induced conformational switching of a molecular quantum dot

TL;DR

This paper explores how Josephson currents can induce and control conformational changes in a molecular quantum dot, revealing mechanisms for switching and motion driven by superconducting effects.

Contribution

It introduces a model demonstrating Josephson-current-induced conformational switching and predicts periodic motions via Landau-Zener transitions in a molecular quantum dot.

Findings

Josephson current can reverse molecular conformations.

Periodic conformational motions are predicted at small bias voltages.

Landau-Zener transitions drive conformational dynamics.

Abstract

We discuss the behavior of a two-level system coupled to a quantum dot contacted by superconducting source/drain electrodes, representing a simple model for the conformational degree of freedom of a molecular dot or a break junction. The Josephson current is shown to induce conformational changes, including a complete reversal. For small bias voltage, periodic conformational motions induced by Landau-Zener transitions between Andreev states are predicted.