Atomic-Scale Visualization of Quantum Interference on a Weyl Semimetal Surface by Scanning Tunneling Microscopy

Area of Science:

• Condensed Matter Physics
• Materials Science
• Nanotechnology

Background:

• Weyl semimetals represent a new frontier in condensed matter physics, materials science, and nanotechnology.
• Understanding their surface electronic properties is crucial for harnessing their potential.

Purpose of the Study:

• To provide the first atomic-scale visualization of surface states in a Weyl semimetal, specifically NbP.
• To investigate quantum interference patterns and scattering processes of quasiparticles on the NbP surface.

Main Methods:

• Utilized scanning tunneling microscopy/spectroscopy (STM/STS) for atomic-scale imaging and electronic structure analysis.
• Analyzed coherent quantum interference patterns arising from quasiparticle scattering near surface defects.
• Compared experimental data with theoretical calculations to understand scattering mechanisms.

Main Results:

• Observed and characterized quantum interference patterns on the NbP surface.
• Revealed the surface electronic structure in both real and reciprocal spaces, below and above the chemical potential.
• Identified specific scattering processes of exotic surface states and found that orbital/spin texture may suppress certain channels.

Conclusions:

• Provided a comprehensive understanding of the electronic properties on Weyl semimetal surfaces.
• Demonstrated the utility of STM/STS in probing exotic surface states.
• Highlighted the role of surface band texture in scattering phenomena.