Dirac semimetal thin films in in-plane magnetic fields

Area of Science:

• Condensed Matter Physics
• Materials Science
• Solid-State Physics

Background:

• Dirac Semimetals (DSM) exhibit unique electronic properties.
• Surface states in DSMs are crucial for their exotic phenomena.
• Na3Bi is a well-studied DSM material.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the influence of in-plane magnetic fields on Na3Bi thin films.
• To understand the relationship between surface states and Fermi arc states.
• To explore the anisotropic effects of magnetic fields on DSM electronic properties.

Main Methods:

• Numerical simulations were employed to study thin films of Na3Bi.
• Analysis focused on the effects of in-plane magnetic fields applied along different directions.
• Transmission studies were conducted to observe the impact on electronic transport.

Main Results:

• Surface-localized states in thin films are analogous to Fermi arc states.
• Anisotropic magnetic fields induce distinct changes in surface state bands.
• A parallel magnetic field broadens surface bands and creates plateaus; a perpendicular field shifts band-meeting points and sharpens band tips.

Conclusions:

• In-plane magnetic fields significantly modify the electronic properties of Na3Bi thin films.
• The anisotropy of the material leads to direction-dependent magnetic field responses.
• These findings offer insights into controlling electronic transport in topological materials.