Klein backscattering and Fabry-Pérot interference in graphene heterojunctions

Area of Science:

• Condensed matter physics
• Quantum mechanics
• Materials science

Background:

• Graphene's unique electronic properties, including the Klein phenomenon, enable novel quantum transport phenomena.
• Understanding quantum-coherent transport in lateral p-n-p structures is crucial for next-generation electronic devices.

Purpose of the Study:

• To theoretically investigate quantum-coherent transport in a graphene lateral p-n-p structure.
• To elucidate the role of Klein scattering and magnetic fields on interference patterns.

Main Methods:

• Development of a theoretical framework for quantum-coherent transport.
• Analysis of forward and backward scattering at p-n interfaces.
• Inclusion of the Klein phenomenon's effect on backreflection amplitude.

Main Results:

• The Klein phenomenon introduces a phase shift in interference fringes.
• A magnetic field breaks the symmetry of interference contributions from p-n interfaces.
• A half-period shift in Fabry-Pérot fringes is observed at finite magnetic fields.

Conclusions:

• A weak magnetic field can induce a detectable signature of Klein scattering in graphene.
• The observed effect is robust against moderate spatial potential inhomogeneity.