Abstract
First, we present recent experimental results confirming previously predicted strong asymmetries of the current distribution in narrow Hall bars under conditions of the integer quantum Hall effect (IQHE). Then, using a previously developed self-consistent screening and transport theory of the IQHE, we investigate how these asymmetries, which are due to a nonlinear feedback effect of the imposed current on the electron distribution in the sample, depend on relevant parameters, such as strength of the imposed current, magnetic field, temperature and collision broadening of the Landau-quantized energy bands. We find that many aspects of the experimental results can be understood within this approach, whereas other aspects require explicit consideration of additional mechanisms, which may lead to the breakdown of the IQHE.
Highlights
Scanning force microscopy (SFM) [1] has provided interesting information [2, 3, 4] about the position dependence of Hall potential and current density in narrow Hall bars, with a width of about 10 μm
Under strong perpendicular magnetic fields B, which allow the observation of the integer quantized Hall effect (QHE) [5], three types of the spatial variation of the Hall potential were observed
Near the low-B edges of the QH plateaus the Hall potential was constant in a broad region in the center of the sample and dropped across two strips that moved with decreasing B towards the sample edges (“type III”) [3]
Summary
Scanning force microscopy (SFM) [1] has provided interesting information [2, 3, 4] about the position dependence of Hall potential and current density in narrow Hall bars, with a width of about 10 μm.
Sign-in/Register to view highlights & summary Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a callDisclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.
