University Quantum Mechanics I · Potential Barriers and Quantum Tunneling · 8.08
Scanning tunnelling microscopy, tunnel diodes, and gate leakage
Current falling as exp(−2 κ z), near a decade per angstrom at a 4 eV work function, sets STM resolution, drives Esaki and resonant-tunnelling diodes and flash writing, and leaks through thin gate oxides.
Course-map guide · not a complete lesson or simulationScope & orientation
What this subsection covers
Current falling as exp(−2 κ z), near a decade per angstrom at a 4 eV work function, sets STM resolution, drives Esaki and resonant-tunnelling diodes and flash writing, and leaks through thin gate oxides.A strong response uses semi-log lifetime and tunnel-current plots and states where the model stops being reliable.
Reasoning checklist
Evidence, assumptions and limits
Assumptions to state
State the system, observable, approximation, and conditions held fixed before using a model.
Evidence to collect
Does microwave power crossing an air gap between two paraffin prisms fall exponentially with gap width, and does the fitted decay constant match the evanescent prediction?
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Does microwave power crossing an air gap between two paraffin prisms fall exponentially with gap width, and does the fitted decay constant match the evanescent prediction? Useful evidence includes transmitted power against gap width at fixed angle, a log-linear fit giving the decay constant with uncertainty, that constant against the value predicted from angle and index, standing waves named as a systematic, and a written statement that this is a classical electromagnetic analogue of barrier penetration - the same exponential mathematics, not a quantum measurement..
Limits to state
This GioPhysics course map is an adaptable learning sequence, not academic credit, accreditation, or a universal university syllabus.
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This GioPhysics course map is an adaptable learning sequence, not academic credit, accreditation, or a universal university syllabus. It is a first dedicated quantum-mechanics course, distinct from University Physics V, which covers quantum mechanics alongside atomic, nuclear and particle physics in twenty units: this course is narrower, slower, and teaches the linear algebra it needs rather than assuming it. Hydrogen appears here as an introduction, with the full radial derivation belonging to a second course. A midterm examination is assumed around week 8. Follow your institution's published scope, notation, laboratory programme, and assessment rules. A result should be checked against units, signs, limiting cases, and the conditions under which its model was derived.
Diagram & examples
Work the claim before choosing an equation
Interactive concept map
Follow the model from claim to evidence.
Current falling as exp(−2 κ z), near a decade per angstrom at a 4 eV work function, sets STM resolution, drives Esaki and resonant-tunnelling diodes and flash writing, and leaks through thin gate oxides. All assume elastic single-particle transfer.
Model, evidence, and boundary
Which response about Scanning tunnelling microscopy, tunnel diodes, and gate leakage is most defensible?
modelModel, evidence, and boundary turns the stated idea into a representation that can make a prediction.
Example questions
Try the reasoning before revealing the structure.
Which response about Scanning tunnelling microscopy, tunnel diodes, and gate leakage is most defensible?
Quick check
Test the reasoning, not recall
Which response about Scanning tunnelling microscopy, tunnel diodes, and gate leakage is most defensible?
Choose an answer to test the model.