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Monochromatic electron emission from the macroscopic quantum state of a superconductor

Author

Listed:
  • K. Nagaoka

    (Waseda University)

  • T. Yamashita

    (Waseda University)

  • S. Uchiyama

    (Waseda University)

  • M. Yamada

    (Waseda University)

  • H. Fujii

    (Waseda University)

  • C. Oshima

    (Waseda University
    Kagami Memorial Laboratory for Material Science and Technologies, Waseda University)

Abstract

The ground state of a superconductor is a macroscopic quantum state that can extend coherently over substantial distances1. As a result, electrons tunnelling from two different points (separated by macroscopic length) on the surface of a superconductor remain coherent in phase and so are able to interfere: this property forms the basis of superconducting quantum interference devices (SQUIDs). Another characteristic of electrons tunnelling from a superconductor is that they are monochromatic, their energy being determined by the ground-state energy of the superconducting state. Monochromatic electrons have been observed tunnelling from a superconductor to a normal metal2, and the resulting currents have been used to probe the dynamics of atoms and molecules at interfaces3. Here we report the results of field-emission experiments that confirm the prediction4 that monochromatic electrons can similarly be emitted from a superconductor into vacuum. Monochromatic emissions of this type might find application as the sources in a range of electron-based spectroscopies.

Suggested Citation

  • K. Nagaoka & T. Yamashita & S. Uchiyama & M. Yamada & H. Fujii & C. Oshima, 1998. "Monochromatic electron emission from the macroscopic quantum state of a superconductor," Nature, Nature, vol. 396(6711), pages 557-559, December.
    • Handle: RePEc:nat:nature:v:396:y:1998:i:6711:d:10.1038_25098
    DOI: 10.1038/25098
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