Chaotic dynamics in miniband semiconductor superlattices under crossed electric and magnetic fields

Abstract

We have theoretically studied chaotic dynamics of ballistic electrons in a GaAs-based miniband semiconductor superlattice with a terahertz electric field parallel to and a magnetic field perpendicular to the growth axis, using the semiclassical balance equation model with elastic and inelastic scattering. The effect of magnetic field is included in the balance equations which incorporate the self-consistent electric field. The electron motion within the miniband superlattice produces a cooperative nonlinear oscillatory mode with the influence of self-consistent electric field and magnetic field. Complicated chaotic dynamical characteristics show up with the external electric field driving amplitude, driving frequency, and magnetic field as the control parameters. The temporal behaviors of the nonlinear dynamical system are analyzed with different techniques, such as Lyapunov exponent, Poincar\'e bifurcation diagram, phase plot, first return map, and power spectrum.