Tunneling Current in Barrier Tunneling: Cu & Al Polarity Reversal

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Discussion Overview

The discussion centers on the behavior of tunneling current in barrier tunneling when the polarity of the applied voltage is reversed between two different materials, specifically copper (Cu) and aluminum (Al). The scope includes theoretical considerations of tunneling phenomena and the implications of material properties on tunneling current.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Technical explanation, Debate/contested

Main Points Raised

  • One participant questions whether reversing the polarity of the applied voltage between Cu and Al will affect the tunneling current.
  • Another participant suggests that in standard, elastic tunneling, the tunneling current is primarily determined by the characteristics of the tunneling barrier rather than the specific materials involved.
  • A third participant notes that hysteresis in tunneling current may indicate interesting phenomena within the material.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

There is no clear consensus on the impact of polarity reversal on tunneling current, as participants present differing views on the significance of material properties and tunneling mechanisms.

Contextual Notes

The discussion does not resolve the assumptions regarding the nature of the tunneling barrier or the specific conditions under which the tunneling occurs.

sid_galt
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in barrier tunneling, if voltage is applied between two different materials, for eg Cu and Al and then the polarity is inversed, will there be any difference in the tunneling current?
 
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sid_galt said:
in barrier tunneling, if voltage is applied between two different materials, for eg Cu and Al and then the polarity is inversed, will there be any difference in the tunneling current?

Not if it is a standard, elastic tunneling, which is a function more of the nature of the tunneling barrier than the material.

Zz.
 
In fact, hysteresis is almost always a sign that there's something interesting in the material.
 
thanks for the info
 

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