Article abstract
Nature Physics 2, 620 - 625 (2006)
doi:10.1038/nphys384
Subject Categories: Condensed-matter physics | Electronics, photonics and device physics | Particle physics
Chiral tunnelling and the Klein paradox in graphene
M. I. Katsnelson1, K. S. Novoselov2 and A. K. Geim2
Abstract
The so-called Klein paradox—unimpeded penetration of relativistic particles through high and wide potential barriers—is one of the most exotic and counterintuitive consequences of quantum electrodynamics. The phenomenon is discussed in many contexts in particle, nuclear and astro-physics but direct tests of the Klein paradox using elementary particles have so far proved impossible. Here we show that the effect can be tested in a conceptually simple condensed-matter experiment using electrostatic barriers in single- and bi-layer graphene. Owing to the chiral nature of their quasiparticles, quantum tunnelling in these materials becomes highly anisotropic, qualitatively different from the case of normal, non-relativistic electrons. Massless Dirac fermions in graphene allow a close realization of Klein's gedanken experiment, whereas massive chiral fermions in bilayer graphene offer an interesting complementary system that elucidates the basic physics involved.
- Institute for Molecules and Materials, Radboud University Nijmegen, 6525 ED Nijmegen, The Netherlands
- Manchester Centre for Mesoscience and Nanotechnology, University of Manchester, Manchester M13 9PL, UK
Correspondence to: M. I. Katsnelson1 e-mail: katsnelson@science.ru.nl
Correspondence to: A. K. Geim2 e-mail: geim@manchester.ac.uk
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