Abstract
We investigate the linear transport properties of quantum point contacts (QPCs) whosesymmetry is deliberately broken in a controlled manner. The devices that we study consistof a conventional split-gate QPC, which is modified by the inclusion of an additionalperturbing gate that is used to modulate the electron density on one side of the device. Asthe voltage applied to this ‘finger gate’ is varied, we observe several reproduciblefeatures below the last integer plateau, as well as strong modifications of theinteger-plateau staircase. Self-consistent calculations, performed for the exact devicestructure utilized in experiment, suggest that these features are related to the abilityof the finger gate to strongly disrupt the symmetry of the QPC, reducing theelectron density significantly on one side of the device. We discuss these resultswithin the context of recent models for many-body electron transport in QPCs.
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.
