How Does Adding a Hydrogen Layer Affect Tunneling Coefficients in STM Analysis?

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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on the impact of adding a hydrogen layer on tunneling coefficients in scanning tunneling microscopy (STM) analysis. The original tunneling coefficient, T0, is compared to the modified coefficient, T1, after introducing a hydrogen layer with a radius R. The relationship between T0 and T1 is explored using Taylor expansions, particularly under the condition where R is significantly smaller than the penetration depth, represented as 1/α. The participant expresses difficulty in applying Taylor expansions to derive the difference between T0 and T1.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of tunneling coefficients in quantum mechanics
  • Familiarity with scanning tunneling microscopy (STM) principles
  • Knowledge of Taylor expansions and their applications
  • Concept of potential barriers and penetration depth (δ)
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  • Study the application of Taylor expansions in quantum mechanics problems
  • Research the effects of work function changes on tunneling probabilities
  • Learn about the mathematical derivation of tunneling coefficients
  • Explore the implications of penetration depth in potential barriers
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Students and researchers in quantum mechanics, particularly those focusing on tunneling phenomena and scanning tunneling microscopy applications.

erok81
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Homework Statement



In my never ending quest to suck and never be able to do Taylor Expansions, I have another one. I hope one day I'll be able to do these.

I have an unknown material and a scanning tunnel microscope. A layer of hydrogen atoms of radius R are added to the surface. This of course will affect my potential barrier as it changes the work function of my set up.

Call my original tunneling coefficient to be T0 and my hydrogen layer to be T1.

With R << 1/α, how does the difference T0-T1 modifies. Use a taylor expansion.

Homework Equations



My tunneling probability is given by:

T=\frac{16E(U_{0}-E)}{U_{0}^{2}}e^{-4 \alpha L}

Where my transmission coefficient is given by:

T=\frac{16E(U_{0}-E)}{U_{0}^{2}}


The Attempt at a Solution



I hate posting problems like this because I have no idea how to begin.

I know that 1/α Ξ δ where δ is the penetration depth in a potential barrier. And obviously is L>>δ not much of the wave function will survive the barrier. So here R is much less than the penetration depth.

That's about all I have. :redface:
 
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So...any ideas?

I've tried reading up a bit more on Taylor expansions but still don't quite get how to apply them in this case.
 

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