Mapping an electron wave function by a local electron scattering probe

TL;DR

This paper introduces a novel local scattering technique using aluminium delta-layers to map the electron wave function in two-dimensional electron gases with high precision, revealing detailed wave function shapes without broadening quantum Hall features.

Contribution

It presents a new method for directly mapping electron wave functions in 2D systems using local scattering probes, enhancing understanding of quantum states.

Findings

Wave function shape mapped perpendicular to interface.

Delta-layers affect mobility but not quantum Hall plateau width.

Technique enables detailed spatial wave function analysis.

Abstract

A technique is developed which allows for the detailed mapping of the electronic wave function in two-dimensional electron gases with low-temperature mobilities up to 15E6 cm^2/Vs. Thin ("delta") layers of aluminium are placed into the regions where the electrons reside. This causes electron scattering which depends very locally on the amplitude of the electron wave function at the position of the Al "delta"-layer. By changing the distance of this layer from the interface we map the shape of the wave function perpendicular to the interface. Despite having a profound effect on the electron mobiliy, the "delta"-layers do not cause a widening of the quantum Hall plateaus.