Design and characterization of electrons in a fractal geometry

S. N. Kempkes, M. R. Slot, S. E. Freeney, S. J.M. Zevenhuizen, D. Vanmaekelbergh, I. Swart, C. Morais Smith

Research output: Contribution to journalLetterAcademicpeer-review

Abstract

The dimensionality of a quantum system plays a decisive role in its electronic spectral and transport properties. In 3D, electrons behave as a non-interacting Fermi liquid, whereas in 1D interactions are relevant. On the other hand, in 2D exotic phenomena such as charge fractionalization may occur. However, very little is known about electrons in fractional dimensions. Here, we design and characterize an electronic Sierpinski triangle fractal in real and reciprocal space by confining the surface-state electrons of Cu(111) with adsorbed CO molecules. We observe single-electron wave functions in real space with a fractal dimension of 1.58 as well as a subdivision of the wave function in self-similar parts. These results open the path to fractal electronics in a systematic and controlled manner.
Original languageEnglish
Pages (from-to)127–131
Number of pages6
JournalNature Physics
Volume15
Issue number2
DOIs
Publication statusPublished - 2018

Fingerprint

Dive into the research topics of 'Design and characterization of electrons in a fractal geometry'. Together they form a unique fingerprint.

Cite this