Scattering from Surface Step Edges in Strong Topological Insulators

Details Scattering from Surface Step Edges in Strong Topological Insulators Scattering from Surface Step Edges in Strong Topological Insulators

2009-12-22

arxiv.org/abs/0912.4477v3

Physics

Condensed Matter

Mesoscale and Nanoscale Physics

4 pages, 3 figures; wording improved to emphasize the broad scope of our calculation.

Scientific paper

We study the characteristics of scattering processes at step edges on the surfaces of Strong Topological Insulators (STI), arising from restrictions imposed on the $S$-matrix \emph{solely} by time reversal symmetry and translational invariance along the step edge. We show that the `perfectly reflecting' step edge that may be defined with these restrictions allow modulations in the Local Density of States (LDOS) near the step edge to decay no slower than $1/x$, where $x$ is the distance from the step edge. This is faster than in 2D Electron Gases (2DEG) --- where the LDOS decays as $1/\sqrt{x}$ --- and shares the same cause as the suppression of backscattering in STI surface states. We also calculate the scattering at a delta function scattering potential and argue that \emph{generic} step edges will produce a $x^{-3/2}$ decay of LDOS oscillations. Experimental implications are also discussed.

Affiliated with

Also associated with

No associations

Rating

Scattering from Surface Step Edges in Strong Topological Insulators 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 Scattering from Surface Step Edges in Strong Topological Insulators, we encourage you to share that experience with our LandOfFree.com community. Your opinion is very important and Scattering from Surface Step Edges in Strong Topological Insulators will most certainly appreciate the feedback.

Rate now

Comments { 0 }

Profile ID: LFWR-SCP-O-307745