Dr. Orion Ciftja announces completion of National Science Foundation project: Energy of a Finite Two-Dimensional Electron Gas

National Science Foundation

O. Ciftja (PI) M. and L. Escamilla (from left to right)

O. Ciftja (PI) M. and L. Escamilla (from left to right) presenting their work at a conference (2014). L. Escamilla was supported by this award to conduct research. He graduated with a B.S. degree in Physics.

Finite systems of electrons manifest size-dependent properties and generally manifest properties that sometimes are quite unusual. The interplay between low-dimensionality, finite size, interaction and other factors may lead to subtle phenomena of great theoretical and practical interest.
Studies of the properties of finite two-dimensional electron gas systems by means of theoretical and computational tools enable us to understand some of the factors that determine the state of the system and may shed light on more complex phenomena

[1, 2].
This award supports a program of integrated research and education for a pool of talented undergraduate students in STEM disciplines. Several minority students were supported to conduct meaningful research on various topics mostly involving electronic systems.
The involvement of students in research, education and outreach activities contributes to the increase of student interest in the Physics program at our institution. Students feel the excitement of research and want to contribute in the field. This may provide future scientific opportunities for students interested in Physics.

Least square fit of the potential energy per particle (relative to its corresponding thermodynamic value) as a function of the number N of electrons.

Least square fit of the potential energy per particle (relative to its corresponding thermodynamic value) as a function of the number N of electrons. The system is a two-dimensional electron gas. Electrons are considered spin-polarized. Note how the energy values manifest strong N-dependence for finite N.

 

[1] O. Ciftja, Physica B 458, 92 (2015).[2] O. Ciftja, G. Paredes*, and M. Griffin*, Phys. Scr. 89, 115803 (2014).
* denotes undergraduate student co-author