The Physics of Low-dimensional Semiconductors
An Introduction

Beginning graduate introduction to low-dimensional systems and their applications.

John H. Davies (Author)

9780521484916, Cambridge University Press

Paperback, published 13 December 1997

460 pages, 175 b/w illus. 5 tables
25.4 x 18.1 x 2.6 cm, 0.79 kg

The composition of modern semiconductor heterostructures can be controlled precisely on the atomic scale to create low-dimensional systems. These systems have revolutionised semiconductor physics, and their impact on technology, particularly for semiconductor lasers and ultrafast transistors, is widespread and burgeoning. This book provides an introduction to the general principles that underlie low-dimensional semiconductors. As far as possible, simple physical explanations are used, with reference to examples from actual devices. The author shows how, beginning with fundamental results from quantum mechanics and solid-state physics, a formalism can be developed that describes the properties of low-dimensional semiconductor systems. Among numerous examples, two key systems are studied in detail: the two-dimensional electron gas, employed in field-effect transistors, and the quantum well, whose optical properties find application in lasers and other opto-electronic devices. The book includes many exercises and will be invaluable to undergraduate and first-year graduate physics or electrical engineering students taking courses in low-dimensional systems or heterostructure device physics.

Preface
Introduction
1. Foundations
2. Electrons and phonons in crystals
3. Heterostructures
4. Quantum wells and low-dimensional systems
5. Tunnelling transport
6. Electric and magnetic fields
7. Approximate methods
8. Scattering rates: the Golden Rule
9. The two-dimensional electron gas
10. Optical properties of quantum wells
Appendix 1. Table of physical constants
Appendix 2. Properties of important semiconductors
Appendix 3. Properties of GaAs-AlAs alloys at room temperature
Appendix 4. Hermite's equation: harmonic oscillator
Appendix 5. Airy functions: triangular well
Appendix 6. Kramers-Kronig relations and response functions
Bibliography.

Subject Areas: Semi-conductors & super-conductors [TJFD5]