Can Tunneling Occur at 0 Kelvin with an Applied Bias?

In summary, a hypothetical scenario is discussed where a pair of electrodes with a small insulating barrier between them allow for transport via tunneling. With the application of a small bias, conductance can be measured due to the tunneling current. The question is then raised if tunneling can still occur at 0 K, or if the presence of an applied bias means there must be some nonzero temperature state. The answer is that tunnelling can still occur at 0 K, as it is a process that does not rely on thermal energy. However, experimental measurements are typically done at very low temperatures to avoid interference from thermal processes.
  • #1
Hyo X
101
11
Hypothetically:
A pair of electrodes with a small insulating barrier between them. Transport is via tunneling through the barrier.
You apply a small bias, and measure conductance because there is tunneling current.
At 0 K, can there still be tunneling?
Is it possible for a tunnel junction to be AT 0 K while there is an applied bias, or does the very nature of the 'potential' mean that it is at some T≠0 state?

Thanks
 
Physics news on Phys.org
  • #2
Sure, you can have tunnelling. The latter is after all a process that does not depend on the availability of thermal energy,

Experimentally, these measurements are often done at temperatures of about 20 mK or so, meaning kbT is nearly always much, much lower than the potential energies involved (if this is not the case, thermal processes will make it difficult to see the tunnelling current).
 

What is applied bias at zero Kelvin?

Applied bias at zero Kelvin refers to the application of an external electric field to a sample at a temperature of absolute zero (0 Kelvin). This is typically done in experimental studies to measure the electrical properties of materials at their lowest possible temperature.

Why is applied bias at zero Kelvin important in scientific research?

Applied bias at zero Kelvin allows scientists to study the intrinsic electrical properties of materials without the interference of thermal energy. This can provide valuable insights into the behavior of materials at extremely low temperatures, which is necessary for understanding their properties and potential applications.

How is applied bias at zero Kelvin achieved?

Applied bias at zero Kelvin can be achieved through various techniques, such as using a dilution refrigerator or a cryostat. These devices are able to cool samples to temperatures close to absolute zero and also provide a means to apply an external electric field to the sample.

What are some potential applications of studying applied bias at zero Kelvin?

Studying applied bias at zero Kelvin can have various applications, such as in the development of superconducting materials, quantum computing, and understanding the behavior of materials in extreme environments like outer space. It can also help in the design of more efficient electronic devices and better understanding of fundamental physics principles.

Are there any limitations to studying applied bias at zero Kelvin?

One limitation of studying applied bias at zero Kelvin is that it requires specialized equipment and techniques, which may not be readily available to all scientists. Additionally, some materials may not exhibit significant changes in their electrical properties at such low temperatures, making it difficult to draw meaningful conclusions from the data obtained.

Similar threads

I Can Quantum Tunneling Occur Through a Material Barrier?
    • Quantum Physics
Replies
4
Views
746
I Please help me understand quantum tunneling conceptually?
    • Quantum Physics
Replies
13
Views
2K
A In light of new evidence, what might be behind the Casimir Effect?
    • Quantum Physics
2
Replies
46
Views
2K
Exploring Barrier Tunneling in Quantum Mechanics
    • Quantum Physics
Replies
4
Views
5K
I (Conceptual) Infinity energy via quantum tunneling & Nuclear Fusion?
    • Quantum Physics
Replies
7
Views
1K
Need help modelling Quantum Tunnelling Composites
    • Quantum Physics
Replies
2
Views
1K
I Are solar cells operated under any kind of bias or not?
    • Atomic and Condensed Matter
Replies
3
Views
5K
Wrong statement about a p-n junction
    • Introductory Physics Homework Help
Replies
18
Views
2K
Difference between Voltage Bias in STM/STS vs. Electrochemical Cell
    • Atomic and Condensed Matter
Replies
1
Views
3K
B Quantum Entanglement: Hidden Information vs. Time
    • Quantum Physics
Replies
19
Views
2K

Hot Threads

Recent Insights

Back
Top