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Phil. Trans. R. Soc. Lond. A 362 1149-1161 (2004).

Electron states in quantum corrals

S Crampin

Department of Physics, University of Bath, BA2 7AY, United Kingdom

Abstract
Quantum corrals are nanoscale structures formed by positioning individual atoms using the scanning tunneling microscope into geometrical arrangements that form closed structures. They can be used to control the spatial and spectral distribution of surface electrons. The theoretical modelling of these systems is described and illustrated, and the application of the corrals as quantum laboratories for controling the interactions of surface state electrons is described. A new three-dimensional scattering model is introduced that extends the description of the electron states within quantum corrals and which can form the basis of many-body calculations of the lifetimes of confined electrons.