Lateral spin-orbit interaction and spin polarization in quantum point contacts

Details Lateral spin-orbit interaction and spin polarization in quantum point contacts Lateral spin-orbit interaction and spin polarization in quantum point contacts

2009-08-07

arxiv.org/abs/0908.1080v1

Phys. Rev. B 81, 115328 (2010)

Physics

Condensed Matter

Mesoscale and Nanoscale Physics

Summited to PRB (2009)

Scientific paper

We study ballistic transport through semiconductor quantum point contact systems under different confinement geometries and applied fields. In particular, we investigate how the {\em lateral} spin-orbit coupling, introduced by asymmetric lateral confinement potentials, affects the spin polarization of the current. We find that even in the absence of external magnetic fields, a variable {\em non-zero spin polarization} can be obtained by controlling the asymmetric shape of the confinement potential. These results suggest a new approach to produce spin polarized electron sources and we study the dependence of this phenomenon on structural parameters and applied magnetic fields. This asymmetry-induced polarization provides also a plausible explanation of our recent observations of a 0.5 conductance plateau (in units of $2e^2/h$) in quantum point contacts made on InAs quantum-well structures. Although our estimates of the required spin-orbit interaction strength in these systems do not support this explanation, they likely play a role in the effects enhanced by electron-electron interactions.

Affiliated with

Also associated with

No associations

Rating

Lateral spin-orbit interaction and spin polarization in quantum point contacts does not yet have a rating. At this time, there are no reviews or comments for this scientific paper.

If you have personal experience with Lateral spin-orbit interaction and spin polarization in quantum point contacts, we encourage you to share that experience with our LandOfFree.com community. Your opinion is very important and Lateral spin-orbit interaction and spin polarization in quantum point contacts will most certainly appreciate the feedback.

Rate now

Comments { 0 }

Profile ID: LFWR-SCP-O-153603