Discrete energy levels without confinement – a new quantum trick

17.05.2019
Nanostructures can be designed such a way that the quantum confinement allows only certain electron energy levels. Researchers from IMDEA Nanociencia, UAM and ICMM-CSIC have for the first time observed a discrete pattern of electron energies in an unconfined system, which could lead to new ways of modifying the surface properties of materials.