Interaction between Rashba and Zeeman effects in a quantum well channel

Area of Science:

• Condensed Matter Physics
• Quantum Mechanics
• Materials Science

Background:

• Quantum well systems exhibit complex spin dynamics influenced by external fields.
• The Rashba effect, a spin-orbit interaction, is crucial for spintronic applications.
• Zeeman effects from applied magnetic fields can interfere with intrinsic spin properties.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the interplay between the applied field induced Zeeman effect and the Rashba effect in quantum wells.
• To understand how external fields modify spin-orbit interactions.
• To determine the parameters governing spin splitting under combined field conditions.

Main Methods:

• Utilized Shubnikov-de Haas oscillations measurements.
• Analyzed the angle dependence of these oscillations to probe field interactions.
• Theoretically modeled the combined effects of Zeeman and Rashba interactions.

Main Results:

• The in-plane component of the applied field was found to significantly alter the Rashba-induced spin splitting.
• Shubnikov-de Haas oscillation data revealed a clear dependence on the applied field's orientation.
• The total effective spin-orbit interaction parameter is a vector sum of the Rashba and applied fields.

Conclusions:

• The Zeeman effect and Rashba effect are not independent in quantum wells under applied fields.
• Precise control over applied fields is necessary to tune spin-orbit interactions.
• Findings provide insights for designing spintronic devices by managing spin splitting.