Abstract
In this review we discuss recent theoretical studies of single subsurface defects by means of a scanning tunneling microscope (STM). These investigations are based on quantum interference effects between the electron partial waves that are directly transmitted through the contact and the partial waves scattered by a defect. In particular, we demonstrate the feasibility of imaging the position of a defect below a metal surface by means of STM. Different types of subsurface defects are discussed: point-like magnetic and nonmagnetic defects, magnetic clusters in a nonmagnetic host metal, and nonmagnetic defects in an s-wave superconductor. The effect of Fermi surface anisotropy is analyzed. Studies of the effect of high magnetic fields on the STM conductance of tunnel point contacts in the presence of a single defect are also discussed.
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