Coupled pb chains on si(557): origin of one-dimensional conductance

Phys Rev Lett. 2008 Feb 22;100(7):076802. doi: 10.1103/PhysRevLett.100.076802. Epub 2008 Feb 22.

Abstract

The Pb/Si(557) system exhibits a strong anisotropy in conductance below 78 K, with the evolution of a characteristic chain structure. Here we show, using angle-resolved photoemission, that chain ordering results in complete Fermi-like nesting in the direction normal to the chains; in addition, the domain structure along the chains forms split-off valence bands with mesoscopic Fermi wavelengths which induce the 1D conductance without further instabilities at low temperatures.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't
  • Research Support, U.S. Gov't, Non-P.H.S.