Topographic mapping of the quantum hall liquid using a few-electron bubble

Journal Article (Journal Article)

A scanning probe technique was used to obtain a high-resolution map of the random electrostatic potential inside the quantum Hall liquid. A sharp metal tip, scanned above a semiconductor surface, sensed charges in an embedded twodimensional (2D) electron gas. Under quantum Hall effect conditions, applying a positive voltage to the tip locally enhanced the 2D electron density and created a 'bubble' of electrons in an otherwise unoccupied Landau revel as the tip scanned along the sample surface, the bubble followed underneath. The tip sensed the motions of single electrons entering or leaving the bubble in response to changes in the local 2D electrostatic potential.

Full Text

Duke Authors

Cited Authors

  • Finkelstein, G; Glicofridis, PI; Ashoori, RC; Shayegan, M

Published Date

  • July 7, 2000

Published In

Volume / Issue

  • 289 / 5476

Start / End Page

  • 90 - 94

International Standard Serial Number (ISSN)

  • 0036-8075

Digital Object Identifier (DOI)

  • 10.1126/science.289.5476.90

Citation Source

  • Scopus