Abstract
We study the influence of impurity scattering on the probability of electron wave switching between coupled quantum wells while varying the location of the impurities in an electron-wave directional coupler. We use a transfer-matrix formalism to solve the coupled-mode equations describing the electron propagation assuming that only one symmetric and one antisymmetric states are available for conduction in the directional coupler. If the Fermi energy is not large compared to the strength of the potential energy profile, the maximum probability of electron transfer between the wells can be substantially reduced from the predicted value of 100% for perfectly symmetric impurity-free directional couplers. The probability of transfer is strongly dependent on the location of the impurities. Attractive and repulsive impurities affect the probability of transfer differently. The potential of the impurities is modeled as a delta-potential with strength equal to a few feV- cm 2. The relevance of our simulations for the study of directional couplers proposed recently is discussed.
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.
