Undergrad Understanding Quantum Corral images

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Quantum corral images are created by manipulating individual atoms with a scanning tunneling microscope (STM), which reveals variations in tunneling current. The high spots in these images correspond to regions of greater current, indicating higher density of states. The current varies due to the interaction between the STM tip and the sample's electronic properties, including work functions and Fermi levels. Understanding these images requires knowledge of solid-state physics and probability density functions. This discussion highlights the connection between STM imaging and the underlying quantum mechanical principles.
fog37
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Hello Forum,

The iconic images of quantum corrals are made by assembling individual atoms using a STM.
I am still unclear on what the image is truly representing. Do the ripples represent the probability density? Of what? How is that possible? I can see how we can mathematically calculate and graph wavefunctions and associated probability density functions but I don't see how we can physically see them with the STM...

thanks!
 
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fog37 said:
I am still unclear on what the image is truly representing.
The high spots in the image are regions where the current through the tip of the STM is greater.
 
Been a while since this very correct answer was given. Is fog completely happy with this answer ? Because I'm still curious to know what causes this current to vary (which it doesn't for the 'constant current' practical implementations where the tip is moved up and down :smile:). Under Procedure (NOT under Principle of operation) I find that the tunneling current depends on the density of states. The TeachersManual is a bit more elaborate: On p 5 the work functions of tip and sample are featuring, and again the densities (tip and sample) of states.

Wonderful ! And all this info with just a little Googling. Time to brush up solid state physics, Fermi levels and such !
 

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