Currents in a many-particle parabolic quantum dot under a strong magnetic field

TL;DR

This paper investigates persistent and local currents in many-electron quantum dots under strong magnetic fields, combining quasi-classical theory and exact numerical solutions to enhance understanding of electron behavior.

Contribution

It introduces the analysis of density-current correlators and emphasizes the importance of proper wave function projection in studying electron currents in quantum dots.

Findings

Persistent currents arise due to magnetic field and electron liquid interactions.

Density-current correlators provide additional insights beyond charge density correlations.

Quasi-classical and numerical methods agree on current phenomena in high magnetic fields.

Abstract

Currents in a few-electron parabolic quantum dot placed into a perpendicular magnetic field are considered. We show that traditional ways of investigating the Wigner crystallization by studying the charge density correlation function can be supplemented by the examination of the density-current correlator. However, care must be exercised when constructing the correct projection of the multi-dimensional wave function space. The interplay between the magnetic field and Euler-liquid-like behavior of the electron liquid gives rise to persistent and local currents in quantum dots. We demonstrate these phenomena by collating a quasi-classical theory valid in high magnetic fields and an exact numerical solution of the many-body problem.