Single Quantum Dot as Electronic Rectifier Due to Asymmetric Coupling Interaction

Abstract

In this research we present extended theoretical study for electron transport through a quantum dot embedded between two normal leads. We model this quantum dot as single impurity (with two energy levels) to study the electron tunneling process through it, the system under consideration is taken out of equilibrium by induced temperature gradient. Its occupation numbers and tunneling current are formulated as a function of all important “chemisorption” functions that related to the tunneling process. Our treatment allows for the tunneling current through the quantum dot to be calculated depending on the spin-dependent occupation numbers.Our theoretical formulation is applied to study the thermoelectric transport through a quantum dot. The symmetrical and asymmetrical coupling between the quantum dot and leads are studied and investigated to explore the existence of electronic rectification.