Spin-orbit interaction induces charge beatings in a lightwave-STM single molecule junction

TL;DR

This paper theoretically investigates how spin-orbit interaction causes charge beatings in a single molecule junction under lightwave-STM, revealing ultrafast charge dynamics influenced by quantum interference effects.

Contribution

It introduces a theoretical model for charge dynamics in a lightwave-STM involving spin-orbit interaction and interference of quasi-degenerate states, advancing understanding of ultrafast molecular electronics.

Findings

Spin-orbit interaction induces charge beatings in the molecule.

Interference between quasi-degenerate states affects charge flow.

Time-domain analysis reveals ultrafast charge dynamics.

Abstract

Recent lightwave-STM experiments have shown space and time resolution of single molecule vibrations directly on their intrinsic length and time scales. We address here theoretically the electronic dynamics of a copper-phthalocynanine in a lightwave-STM, explored within a pump-probe cycle scheme. The spin-orbit interaction in the metallic center induces beatings of the electric charge flowing through the molecule as a function of the delay time between the pump and the probe pulses. Interference between the quasi-degenerate anionic states of the molecule and the intertwined dynamics of the associated spin and pseudospin degrees of freedom are the key aspects of such phenomenon. We study the dynamics directly in the time domain within a generalized master equation approach.