ISSN:
1434-6036
Source:
Springer Online Journal Archives 1860-2000
Topics:
Physics
Notes:
Abstract The Quantum Size Effect (QSE) is expected to exist in metal films. It has been discussed in a number of theoretical papers. The experimental verification is difficult because of the very short Fermi wave length of the charge carriers in metals. Surface roughness of the films and diffuse scattering of the charge carriers from the film surface usually prevent the observation of QSE. We succeeded in preparing Pt-films with surface roughness below 0.3 nm, which also exhibited partly specular reflection of the electrons from the film surface. Oscillations of the conductivity with the film thickness, due to QSE, were observed in the thickness range from 0.5 nm to 2.0 nm. Band splitting was observed in the thickness range from 5 nm to 20 nm by means of tunneling spectroscopy. From the results we suggest that electrons as well as holes in closed Fermi surfaces participate in the QSE. Holes in open Fermi surfaces, despite their larger density, could not be observed. The measurements allow the determination of the Fermi energy and the effective masses of both electrons and holes in quasi amorphous films.
Type of Medium:
Electronic Resource
URL:
http://dx.doi.org/10.1007/BF01305827
