Full capacitance matrix of coupled quantum dot arrays: Static and dynamical effects

Abstract

We numerically calculated the full capacitance matrices for both one-dimensional (1D) and two-dimensional (2D) quantum-dot arrays. We found it is necessary to use the full capacitance matrix in modeling coupled quantum dot arrays due to weaker screening in these systems in comparison with arrays of normal metal tunnel junctions. The static soliton potential distributions in both 1D and 2D arrays are well approximated by the unscreened (1/r) Coulomb potential, instead of the exponential fall-off expected from the often used nearest neighbor approximation. The Coulomb potential approximation also provides a simple expression for the full inverse capacitance matrix of uniform quantum dot arrays. In terms of dynamics, we compare the current-voltage (I-V) characteristics of voltage biased 1D arrays using either the full capacitance matrix or its nearest neighbor approximation. The I-V curves show clear differences and the differences become more pronounced when larger arrays are considered.