Electron-hole overlap integral for a quantum well

In summary, the electron-hole overlap integral Mnn' is unity if n=n' in a quantum well with infinite barriers, and zero if (n-n') is an odd number in a quantum well with finite barriers.
  • #1
skyboarder2
15
0
Hi, I need some help to work out the electron-hole overlap integral Mnn' for a quantum well:
Knowing that M'nn'=[tex]\int[/tex][tex]\varphi[/tex]*en'(z).[tex]\varphi[/tex]hn(z).dz
=> How can I show that Mnn' is unity if n=n' and zero otherwise (in a quantum well with infinite barriers) ?
=> How can I show that Mnn' is zero if (n-n') is an odd number in a quantum well with finite barriers) ?

Thanks a lot
S.
 
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  • #2
For a quantum well with infinite barriers, the electron wave function (en) and hole wave function (e-h) are localized in the same region of space. This means that the integral M'nn' is equal to the overlap of the two wave functions, which is unity if n=n' and zero otherwise. For a quantum well with finite barriers, the electron and hole wave functions can be spread into different regions of space. In this case, the integral M'nn' is equal to the overlap of the two wave functions, which is zero if (n-n') is an odd number.
 

1. What is the electron-hole overlap integral for a quantum well?

The electron-hole overlap integral for a quantum well is a measure of the spatial overlap between the electron and hole wave functions in a heterostructure. It represents the strength of the interaction between the electron and hole, which is crucial for understanding the optical and electronic properties of quantum wells.

2. How is the electron-hole overlap integral calculated?

The electron-hole overlap integral is typically calculated using the Schrödinger equation, which describes the behavior of quantum particles. It involves solving for the wave functions of the electron and hole in the quantum well and then integrating their product over the entire volume of the well.

3. Why is the electron-hole overlap integral important?

The electron-hole overlap integral is important because it directly affects the optical and electronic properties of quantum wells. A larger overlap integral indicates a stronger interaction between the electron and hole, resulting in a higher degree of exciton binding and a shorter exciton lifetime.

4. How does the electron-hole overlap integral change with the dimensions of the quantum well?

The electron-hole overlap integral is inversely proportional to the well width, meaning that it decreases as the well becomes wider. This is because a wider well allows for more spatial separation between the electron and hole, leading to a weaker interaction and a smaller overlap integral.

5. Can the electron-hole overlap integral be controlled?

Yes, the electron-hole overlap integral can be controlled by adjusting the dimensions and materials of the quantum well. By changing the well width, composition, and doping levels, the strength of the interaction between the electron and hole can be modified, ultimately affecting the optical and electronic properties of the quantum well.

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