Showing papers in "Reports on Progress in Physics in 2004"

The physics of attosecond light pulses

Abstract: We would like to make corrections to three equations in the above article Please see the PDF file for full details

The physics of earthquakes

Abstract: Earthquakes occur as a result of global plate motion. However, this simple picture is far from complete. Some plate boundaries glide past each other smoothly, while others are punctuated by catastrophic failures. Some earthquakes stop after only a few hundred metres while others continue rupturing for a thousand kilometres. Earthquakes are sometimes triggered by other large earthquakes thousands of kilometres away. We address these questions by dissecting the observable phenomena and separating out the quantifiable features for comparison across events. We begin with a discussion of stress in the crust followed by an overview of earthquake phenomenology, focusing on the parameters that are readily measured by current seismic techniques. We briefly discuss how these parameters are related to the amplitude and frequencies of the elastic waves measured by seismometers as well as direct geodetic measurements of the Earth's deformation. We then review the major processes thought to be active during the rupture and discuss their relation to the observable parameters. We then take a longer range view by discussing how earthquakes interact as a complex system. Finally, we combine subjects to approach the key issue of earthquake initiation. This concluding discussion will require using the processes introduced in the study of rupture as well as some novel mechanisms. As our observational database improves, our computational ability accelerates and our laboratories become more refined, the next few decades promise to bring more insights on earthquakes and perhaps some answers.

Reciprocity in optics

Abstract: The application of reciprocity principles in optics has a long history that goes back to Stokes, Lorentz, Helmholtz and others. Moreover, optical applications need to be seen in the context of applications of reciprocity in particle scattering, acoustics, seismology and the solution of inverse problems, generally. In some of these other fields vector wave propagation is, as it is in optics, of the essence. For this reason the simplified approach to light wave polarization developed by, and named for, Jones is explored initially to see how and to what extent it encompasses reciprocity. The characteristic matrix of a uniform dielectric layer, used in the analysis of interference filters and mirrors, is reciprocal except when the layer is magneto-optical. The way in which the reciprocal nature of a characteristic matrix can be recognized is discussed next. After this, work on the influence of more realistic attributes of a dielectric stack on reciprocity is reviewed. Some of the numerous technological applications of magneto-optic non-reciprocal media are identified and the potential of a new class of non-reciprocal components is briefly introduced. Finally, the extension of the classical reciprocity concept to systems containing components that have nonlinear optical response is briefly mentioned.

Electronic and ionic transport properties and other physical aspects of perovskites

Abstract: The perovskites and perovskite-related structures exhibit several features of technical as well as fundamental interest. Technically useful properties include oxide-ion conduction with/without electronic conduction, oxidation catalysis, ferroic displacements in classic and relaxor ferroelectrics, half-metallic ferromagnetism and high-temperature superconductivity. Of more fundamental interest is the ability to tune, by chemical substitution on the large-cation subarray, transition-metal oxides through the crossover on the transition-metal array from localized dn configurations to itinerant d-electron behaviour without/with changing the valence state of that array. The localized-electron configurations may exhibit cooperative Jahn–Teller distortions that introduce anisotropic exchange interactions. At crossover, bond-length fluctuations may segregate into an ordered array of alternating covalent and ionic bonding in a single-valent perovskite; multicentre polarons or correlation bags may replace small polarons in a mixed-valent system. Bond-length fluctuations at crossover give vibronic conduction and suppression of the phonon contribution to the thermal conductivity; the fluctuations may order, to give high-temperature superconductivity, or transform to quantum–critical-point behaviour at lowest temperatures. Crossover of σ-bonding electrons in the presence of localized spins associated with π-bonding electrons gives rise to the colossal magnetoresistance phenomenon above a ferromagnetic Curie temperature.

Texture and anisotropy

Abstract: A large number of polycrystalline materials, both manmade and natural, display preferred orientation of crystallites. Such alignment has a profound effect on anisotropy of physical properties. Preferred orientation or texture forms during growth or deformation and is modified during recrystallization or phase transformations and theories exist to predict its origin. Different methods are applied to characterize orientation patterns and determine the orientation distribution, most of them relying on diffraction. Conventionally x-ray polefigure goniometers are used. More recently single orientation measurements are performed with electron microscopes, both SEM and TEM. For special applications, particularly texture analysis at non-ambient conditions, neutron diffraction and synchrotron x-rays have distinct advantages. The review emphasizes such new possibilities. A second section surveys important texture types in a variety of materials with emphasis on technologically important systems and in rocks that contribute to anisotropy in the earth. In the former group are metals, structural ceramics and thin films. Seismic anisotropy is present in the crust (mainly due to phyllosilicate alignment), the upper mantle (olivine), the lower mantle (perovskite and magnesiowuestite) and the inner core (e-iron) and due to alignment by plastic deformation. There is new interest in the texturing of biological materials such as bones and shells. Preferred orientation is not restricted to inorganic substances but is also present in polymers that are not discussed in this review.

The dynamics of small molecules in intense laser fields

Abstract: In the past decade, the understanding of the dynamics of small molecules in intense laser fields has advanced enormously. At the same time, the technology of ultra-short pulsed lasers has equally progressed to such an extent that femtosecond lasers are now widely available. This review is written from an experimentalist's point of view and begins by discussing the value of this research and defining the meaning of the word 'intense'. It continues with describing the Ti: sapphire laser, including topics such as pulse compression, chirped pulse amplification, optical parametric amplification, laser-pulse diagnostics and the absolute phase. Further aspects include focusing, the focal volume effect and space charge. The discussion of physics begins with the Keldysh parameter and the three regimes of ionization, i.e. multi-photon, tunnelling and over-the-barrier. Direct-double ionization (non-sequential ionization), high-harmonic generation, above-threshold ionization and attosecond pulses are briefly mentioned. Subsequently, a theoretical calculation, which solves the time-dependent Schrodinger equation, is compared with an experimental result. The dynamics of H-2(+) in an intense laser field is interpreted in terms of bond-softening, vibrational trapping (bond-hardening), below-threshold dissociation and laser-induced alignment of the molecular axis. The final section discusses the modified Franck-Condon principle, enhanced ionization at critical distances and Coulomb explosion of diatomic and triatomic molecules.

Superionics: crystal structures and conduction processes

Abstract: Superionic conductors are compounds that exhibit exceptionally high values of ionic conductivity within the solid state. Indeed, their conductivities often reach values of the order of 1 Ω−1 cm−1, which are comparable to those observed in the molten state. Following Faraday's first observation of high ionic conductivity within the solids β-PbF2 and Ag2S in 1836, a fundamental understanding of the nature of the superionic state has provided one of the major challenges in the field of condensed matter science. However, experimental and theoretical approaches to their study are often made difficult by the extensive dynamic structural disorder which characterizes superionic conduction and the inapplicability of many of the commonly used approximations in solid state physics. Nevertheless, a clearer picture of the nature of the superionic state at the ionic level has emerged within the past few decades. Many different techniques have contributed to these advances, but the most significant insights have been provided by neutron scattering experiments and molecular dynamics simulations. This review will summarize the state of current knowledge concerning the crystal structures and conduction processes of superionic conductors, beginning with a comparison of the behaviour of two of the most widely studied binary compounds, AgI and β-PbF2. Each can be considered a parent of two larger families of highly conducting compounds which are related by either chemical or structural means. These include perovskite-structured oxides and Li+ containing spinel-structured compounds, which have important commercial applications in fuel cells and lightweight batteries, respectively. In parallel with these discussions, the relative importance of factors such as bonding character and the properties of the mobile and immobile ions (charge, size, polarizability, etc) in promoting the extensive lattice disorder which characterizes superionic behaviour will be assessed and the possibilities for predicting a priori which compounds will display high ionic conductivity discussed.

Metal insulator transition in two-dimensional electron systems

Abstract: The interplay between strong Coulomb interactions and randomness has been a long-standing problem in condensed matter physics. According to the scaling theory of localization in two-dimensional systems of non-interacting or weakly interacting electrons, the ever-present randomness causes the resistance to rise as the temperature is decreased, leading to an insulating ground state. However, new evidence has emerged within the past decade indicating a transition from the insulating to metallic phase in two-dimensional systems of strongly interacting electrons. We review earlier experiments that demonstrate the unexpected presence of a metallic phase in two dimensions, and present an overview of recent experiments with emphasis on the anomalous magnetic properties that have been observed in the vicinity of the transition.

Quantum systems with finite Hilbert space

Abstract: Quantum systems with finite Hilbert space are considered, and phase-space methods like the Heisenberg–Weyl group, symplectic transformations and Wigner and Weyl functions are discussed. A factorization of such systems in terms of smaller subsystems, based on the Chinese remainder theorem, is studied. The general formalism is applied to the case of angular momentum. In this context, SU(2) coherent states are used for analytic representations. Links between the theory of finite quantum systems and other fields of research are discussed.

Metal organic vapour phase epitaxy of GaN and lateral overgrowth

Abstract: Gallium nitride (GaN) is an extremely promising wide band gap semiconductor material for optoelectronics and high temperature, high power electronics. Actually, GaN is probably the most important semiconductor since silicon. However, achievement of its full potential has still been limited by a dramatic lack of suitable GaN bulk single crystals. GaN has a high melting temperature and a very high decomposition pressure; therefore it cannot be grown using conventional methods used for GaAs or Si like Czochraslski or Bridgman growths.Since there is no GaN bulk single crystal commercially available, all technological development of GaN-based devices relies on heteroepitaxy. Most of the current device structures are grown on sapphire or 6H-SiC. However, since their lattice parameters and thermal expansion coefficients are not well-matched to GaN, the epitaxial growth generates huge densities of defects, with threading dislocations (TDs) being the most prevalent (109–1011 cm−2). As a comparison, homoepitaxially grown GaAs exhibits ~102–104 dislocation cm−2, and homoepitaxial Si almost 0. Actually this large density of TDs in GaN drastically limits the performance and operating lifetime of nitride-based devices. Therefore, there is currently a tremendous technological effort to reduce these defects.Metal organic vapour phase epitaxy (MOVPE) is currently the most widely used technology. Actually, all optoelectronic commercial device structures are fabricated using MOVPE. In MOVPE, the most appropriate precursor for nitrogen is ammonia (NH3), whereas either trimethyl or triethylgallium may be used as a gallium source. MOVPE of GaN requires a high partial pressure of NH3, high growth temperatures (~1000–1100°C) and a growth chamber specially designed to avoid premature reactions between the ammonia and gallium alkyls. Since sapphire (or 6H-SiC) and GaN are highly mismatched, direct growth of GaN is impossible. Therefore, the growth of GaN on any substrate first requires the deposition of a buffer layer, which, to some extent, accommodates the mismatch. Using appropriate nucleation layers allows a reduction of the dislocation density to the low 108 cm−2 range.Though laser diodes (LDs) were demonstrated in the late 1990s with such defect layers, the real breakthrough in laser technology was the dramatic improvement of the LD lifetime at the end of 1997, with the lifetime reaching 10 000 h. This was made possible by implementation of epitaxial lateral overgrowth (ELO) technology, which significantly reduces the dislocation density to below 107 cm−2.In ELO technology, parts of the highly dislocated starting GaN are masked with a dielectric mask, after which growth is restarted. At the beginning of the second growth step, deposition only occurs within the openings, with no deposition observed on the mask. This is referred to as selective area epitaxy (SAE). The TDs are prevented from propagating into the overlayer by the dielectric mask, whereas GaN grown above the opening (coherent growth) keeps the same TD density as the template, at least during the early stages of growth.Currently, two main ELO technologies exist: the simpler one involves a single growth step on striped openings. In this one-step-ELO (1S-ELO), growth in the opening remains in registry with the GaN template underneath (coherent part), whereas the GaN over the mask extends laterally (wings). This leads to two grades, namely highly dislocated GaN, above the openings, and low dislocation density GaN, above the masks. With this technique, devices have to be fabricated on the wings. Conversely, in the two-step-ELO (2S-ELO) process, the growth conditions of the first step are monitored to obtain triangular stripes. Inside these stripes, the TDs arising from the templates are bent by 90° when they encounter the inclined lateral facet. In the second step, the growth conditions are modified to achieve full coalescence. In this 2S-ELO technology, only the coalescence boundaries are defective. ELO technology produces high quality GaN, with TD densities in the mid 106 cm−2, line widths of the low temperature photoluminescence near band gap recombination peaks below 1 meV, and deep electron trap concentration below 1014 cm−3 (compared with mid 1015 cm−3 in standard GaN). Numerous modifications of the ELO process have been proposed either to avoid technological steps (maskless ELO) or to improve it (pendeoepitaxy, PE). To further reduce the TD density, multiple-step-ELO and pendeo have also been implemented.However, even ELO quality GaN is not good enough for the next generation of LDs. ELO samples do not yet offer a full surface suitable for laser technology. What is needed for LDs with at least 30 mW output power is high quality freestanding GaN with TDs close to or even below 106 cm−2. To reach this crystalline perfection, elaborate technologies are currently being implemented. They, at some stage, involve TD reduction mechanisms occurring in the ELO process.Self-supported GaN with at least ELO quality at an affordable cost is believed to be the next breakthrough in GaN technology.

Brane world cosmology

Abstract: Recent developments in the physics of extra dimensions have opened up new avenues to test such theories. We review cosmological aspects of brane world scenarios such as the Randall–Sundrum brane model and two-brane systems with a bulk scalar field. We start with the simplest brane world scenario leading to a consistent cosmology: a brane embedded in an anti-de Sitter space–time. We generalize this setting to the case with a bulk scalar field and then to two-brane systems.We discuss different ways of obtaining a low-energy effective theory for two-brane systems, such as the moduli space approximation and the low-energy expansion. A comparison between the different methods is given. Cosmological perturbations are briefly discussed as well as early universe scenarios such as the cyclic model and the born-again brane world model. Finally we also present some physical consequences of brane world scenarios on the cosmic microwave background and the variation of constants.

Atomistic theory of transport in organic and inorganic nanostructures

Abstract: As the size of modern electronic and optoelectronic devices is scaling down at a steady pace, atomistic simulations become necessary for an accurate modelling of their structural, electronic, optical and transport properties. Such microscopic approaches are important in order to account correctly for quantum-mechanical phenomena affecting both electronic and transport properties of nanodevices. Effective bulk parameters cannot be used for the description of the electronic states since interfacial properties play a crucial role and semiclassical methods for transport calculations are not suitable at the typical scales where the device behaviour is characterized by coherent tunnelling.Quantum-mechanical computations with atomic resolution can be achieved using localized basis sets for the description of the system Hamiltonian. Such methods have been extensively used to predict optical and electronic properties of molecules and mesoscopic systems.The most important approaches formulated in terms of localized basis sets, from empirical tight-binding (TB) to first principles methods, are here reviewed. Being a full band approach, even the simplest TB overcomes the limitations of envelope function approximations, such as the well-known k ? p, and allows to retain atomic details and realistic band structures. First principles calculations, on the other hand, can give a very accurate description of the electronic and structural properties.Transport in nanoscale devices cannot neglect quantum effects such as coherent tunnelling. In this context, localized basis sets are well-suited for the formal treatment of quantum transport since they provide a simple mathematical framework to treat open-boundary conditions, typically encountered when the system eigenstates carry a steady-state current.We review the principal methods used to formulate quantum transport based on local orbital sets via transfer matrix and Green's function (GF) techniques. We start from a general introduction to the scattering theory which leads to the Landauer formula, and then report on the most recent progresses of the field including the application of the self-consistent non-equilibrium GF formalism.

Stochastic resonance[02.50.Ey Stochastic processes; 05.40.Ca Noise; 32.80.-t Photon interactions with atoms; 42.50.Lc Quantum fluctuations, quantum noise, and quantum jumps; 87.10.+e General theory and mathematical aspects;]

Abstract: We are taught by conventional wisdom that the transmission and detection of signals is hindered by noise. However, during the last two decades, the paradigm of stochastic resonance (SR) proved this assertion wrong: indeed, addition of the appropriate amount of noise can boost a signal and hence facilitate its detection in a noisy environment. Due to its simplicity and robustness, SR has been implemented by mother nature on almost every scale, thus attracting interdisciplinary interest from physicists, geologists, engineers, biologists and medical doctors, who nowadays use it as an instrument for their specific purposes. At the present time, there exist a lot of diversified models of SR. Taking into account the progress achieved in both theoretical understanding and practical application of this phenomenon, we put the focus of the present review not on discussing in depth technical details of different models and approaches but rather on presenting a general and clear physical picture of SR on a pedagogical level. Particular emphasis will be given to the implementation of SR in generic quantum systems-an issue that has received limited attention in earlier review papers on the topic. The major part of our presentation relies on the two-state model of SR (or on simple variants thereof), which is general enough to exhibit the main features of SR and, in fact, covers many (if not most) of the examples of SR published so far. In order to highlight the diversity of the two-state model, we shall discuss several examples from such different fields as condensed matter, nonlinear and quantum optics and biophysics. Finally, we also discuss some situations that go beyond the generic SR scenario but are still characterized by a constructive role of noise.

Size separation in vibrated granular matter

Abstract: We review recent developments in size separation in vibrated granular materials. Motivated by a need in industry to handle granular materials efficiently and a desire to make fundamental advances in non-equilibrium physics, experimental and theoretical investigations have shown size separation to be a complex phenomenon. Large particles in a vibrated granular system normally rise to the top. However, they may also sink to the bottom or show other patterns, depending on subtle variations in physical conditions. While size ratio is a dominant factor, particle-specific properties such as density, inelasticity and friction can play an important role. The nature of the energy input, boundary conditions and interstitial air have also been shown to be significant factors in determining spatial distributions. The presence of convection can enhance mixing or lead to size separation. Experimental techniques including direct visualization and magnetic resonance imaging are being used to investigate these properties. Molecular dynamics and Monte Carlo simulation techniques have been developed to probe size separation. Analytical methods such as kinetic theory are being used to study the interplay between particle size and density in the vibro-fluidized regime, and geometric models have been proposed to describe size separation for deep beds. Besides discussing these studies, we will also review the impact of inelastic collisions and friction on the density and velocity distributions to gain a deeper appreciation of the non-equilibrium nature of the system. While a substantial number of studies have been performed, considerable work is still required to achieve a firm description of the phenomena.

Neutrino mass models

Abstract: This is a review article about neutrino mass models, particularly see-saw models involving three active neutrinos that are capable of describing both the atmospheric neutrino oscillation data and the large mixing angle (LMA) MSW solar solution, which is now uniquely specified by recent data. We briefly review the current experimental status, show how to parametrize and construct the neutrino mixing matrix, and present the leading order neutrino Majorana mass matrices. We then introduce the see-saw mechanism and discuss a natural application of it to current data using the sequential dominance mechanism, which we compare with an early proposal for obtaining LMAs. We show how both the Standard Model and the Minimal Supersymmetric Standard Model may be extended to incorporate the see-saw mechanism and show how the latter case leads to the expectation of lepton flavour violation. The see-saw mechanism motivates models with additional symmetries such as unification and family symmetry models, and we tabulate some possible models before focusing on two particular examples based on SO(10) grand unification and either U(1) or SU(3) family symmetry as specific examples. This review contains extensive appendices that include techniques for analytically diagonalizing different types of mass matrices involving two LMAs and one small mixing angle, to leading order in the small mixing angle.

Physics with coherent matter waves

Abstract: This review discusses progress in the new field of coherent matter waves, particularly with respect to Bose–Einstein condensates. We give a short introduction to Bose–Einstein condensation and the theoretical description of the condensate wavefunction. We concentrate on the coherence properties of this new type of matter wave as a basis for fundamental physics and applications. The main part of this review treats various measurements and concepts in the physics of coherent matter waves. In particular, we present phase manipulation methods, atom lasers, nonlinear atom optics, optical elements, interferometry and physics in optical lattices. We give an overview of the state of the art in the respective fields and discuss achievements and challenges for the future.

Structure and dynamics of amorphous polymers: computer simulations compared to experiment and theory

Abstract: This contribution considers recent developments in the computer modelling of amorphous polymeric materials. Progress in our capabilities to build models for the computer simulation of polymers from the detailed atomistic scale up to coarse-grained mesoscopic models, together with the ever-improving performance of computers, have led to important insights from computer simulations into the structural and dynamic properties of amorphous polymers. Structurally, chain connectivity introduces a range of length scales from that of the chemical bond to the radius of gyration of the polymer chain covering 2–4 orders of magnitude. Dynamically, this range of length scales translates into an even larger range of time scales observable in relaxation processes in amorphous polymers ranging from about 10−13 to 10−3 s or even to 103 s when glass dynamics is concerned. There is currently no single simulation technique that is able to describe all these length and time scales efficiently. On large length and time scales basic topology and entropy become the governing properties and this fact can be exploited using computer simulations of coarse-grained polymer models to study universal aspects of the structure and dynamics of amorphous polymers. On the largest length and time scales chain connectivity is the dominating factor leading to the strong increase in longest relaxation times described within the reptation theory of polymer melt dynamics. Recently, many of the universal aspects of this behaviour have been further elucidated by computer simulations of coarse-grained polymer models. On short length scales the detailed chemistry and energetics of the polymer are important, and one has to be able to capture them correctly using chemically realistic modelling of specific polymers, even when the aim is to extract generic physical behaviour exhibited by the specific chemistry. Detailed studies of chemically realistic models highlight the central importance of torsional dynamics in all relaxation processes in polymer materials. Finally, the interplay between local energetics, both intramolecular and intermolecular, and the local packing governs the glass transition in polymer melts.

Femtosecond spectroscopy in semiconductors: a key to coherences, correlations and quantum kinetics

Abstract: The application of femtosecond spectroscopy to the study of ultrafast dynamics in semiconductor materials and nanostructures is reviewed with particular emphasis on the physics that can be learned from it. Excitation with ultrashort optical pulses in general results in the creation of coherent superpositions and correlated many-particle states. The review comprises a discussion of the dynamics of this correlated many-body system during and after pulsed excitation as well as its analysis by means of refined measurements and advanced theories. After an introduction of basic concepts—such as coherence, correlation and quantum kinetics—a brief overview of the most important experimental techniques and theoretical approaches is given. The remainder of this paper is devoted to specific results selected in order to highlight how femtosecond spectroscopy gives access to the physics of coherences, correlations and quantum kinetics involving charge, spin and lattice degrees of freedom.First examples deal with the dynamics of basic laser-induced coherences that can be observed, e.g. in quantum beat spectroscopy, in coherent control measurements or in experiments using few-cycle pulses. The phenomena discussed here are basic in the sense that they can be understood to a large extent on the mean-field level of the theory. Nevertheless, already on this level it is found that semiconductors behave substantially differently from atomic systems. Subsequent sections report on the occurrence of coherences and correlations beyond the mean-field level that are mediated either by carrier–phonon or carrier–carrier interactions. The corresponding analysis gives deep insight into fundamental issues such as the energy–time uncertainty, pure dephasing in quantum dot structures, the role of two-pair or even higher correlations and the build-up of screening. Finally results are presented concerning the ultrafast dynamics of resonantly coupled excitations, where a combination of different interaction mechanisms is involved in forming new types of correlations. Examples are coupled plasmon–phonon and Bloch–phonon oscillations.The results reviewed in this paper clearly reveal the central role of many-particle correlations and coherences for the ultrafast dynamics of dense semiconductor systems. Both the presence of strong correlation effects and the formation of coherences in a genuine many-particle system have important implications for the controllability of optical signals from this class of materials, which is of utmost importance for applications in present-day and future optoelectronic devices.

Advances in perturbative thermal field theory

Abstract: The progress in the last decade in perturbative quantum field theory at high temperatures and densities, made possible by the use of effective field theories and hard thermal/dense loop resummations in ultrarelativistic gauge theories, is reviewed. The relevant methods are discussed in field theoretical models from simple scalar theories to non-Abelian gauge theories including gravity. In the simpler models, the aim is to give a pedagogical account of some of the relevant problems and their resolution, while in the more complicated but also more interesting models such as quantum chromodynamics, a summary of the results obtained so far is given together with references to a few of the most recent developments and open problems.

Magnetic properties of colloidal suspensions of interacting magnetic particles

Abstract: We review equilibrium thermodynamic properties of systems of magnetic particles like ferrofluids in which dipolar interactions play an important role The review is focused on two phenomena: (i) magnetization with the initial magnetic susceptibility as a special case and (ii) the phase transition behaviour Here, the condensation ('gas/liquid') transition in the subsystem of the suspended particles is treated as well as the isotropic/ferromagnetic transition to a state with spontaneously generated long-range magnetic order

Recent advances in x-ray absorption spectroscopy

Abstract: Using x-ray absorption spectroscopy recent progress is achieved all over in solid state physics. This review focuses on these advances, with particular emphasis on applications to surface physics and to magnetism of ultrathin 3d and 5d films that are made possible by the use of undulators in third generation synchrotron radiation sources: the unambiguous appearance of an atomic extended x-ray absorption fine structure for atomic adsorbates and of σ* resonances in near-edge x-ray absorption fine structure spectra of oriented molecules is demonstrated. The induced magnetism at the interfaces of 3d and 5d layers is studied by x-ray magnetic circular dichroism. Fundamental aspects of the spectroscopy are clarified for rare earth crystals. The determination of the ground state properties and the detailed understanding of the underlying mechanisms was obtained by comparison of the experimental data to state-of-the-art ab initio calculations.

Supramolecular chemistry: from molecular information towards self-organization and complex matter*

Abstract: Molecular chemistry has developed a wide range of very powerful procedures for constructing ever more sophisticated molecules from atoms linked by covalent bonds. Beyond molecular chemistry lies supramolecular chemistry, which aims at developing highly complex chemical systems from components interacting via non-covalent intermolecular forces.By the appropriate manipulation of these interactions, supramolecular chemistry became progressively the chemistry of molecular information, involving the storage of information at the molecular level, in the structural features, and its retrieval, transfer, and processing at the supramolecular level, through molecular recognition processes operating via specific interactional algorithms.This has paved the way towards apprehending chemistry also as an information science.Numerous receptors capable of recognizing, i.e. selectively binding, specific substrates have been developed, based on the molecular information stored in the interacting species. Suitably functionalized receptors may perform supramolecular catalysis and selective transport processes. In combination with polymolecular organization, recognition opens ways towards the design of molecular and supramolecular devices based on functional (photoactive, electroactive, ionoactive, etc) components.A step beyond preorganization consists in the design of systems undergoing self-organization, i.e. systems capable of spontaneously generating well-defined supramolecular architectures by self-assembly from their components. Self-organization processes, directed by the molecular information stored in the components and read out at the supramolecular level through specific interactions, represent the operation of programmed chemical systems. They have been implemented for the generation of a variety of discrete functional architectures of either organic or inorganic nature.Self-organization processes also give access to advanced supramolecular materials, such as supramolecular polymers and liquid crystals, and provide an original approach to nanoscience and nanotechnology. In particular, the spontaneous but controlled generation of well-defined, functional supramolecular architectures of nanometric size through self-organization represents a means of performing programmed engineering and processing of nanomaterials.Supramolecular chemistry is intrinsically a dynamic chemistry, in view of the lability of the interactions connecting the molecular components of a supramolecular entity and the resulting ability of supramolecular species to exchange their constituents. The same holds for molecular chemistry when a molecular entity contains covalent bonds that may form and break reversibly, so as to make possible a continuous change in constitution and structure by reorganization and exchange of building blocks. This behaviour defines a constitutional dynamic chemistry that allows self-organization by selection as well as by design at both the molecular and supramolecular levels. Whereas self-organization by design strives to achieve full control over the output molecular or supramolecular entity by explicit programming, self-organization by selection operates on dynamic constitutional diversity in response to either internal or external factors to achieve adaptation in a Darwinistic fashion.The merging of the features, information and programmability, dynamics and reversibility, constitution and structural diversity, points towards the emergence of adaptative and evolutionary chemistry. Together with the corresponding fields of physics and biology, it constitutes a science of informed matter, of organized, adaptative complex matter.

Investigations of the form and flow of ice sheets and glaciers using radio-echo sounding

Abstract: Radio-echo sounding (RES), utilizing a variety of radio frequencies, was developed to allow glaciologists to measure the thickness of ice sheets and glaciers. We review the nature of electromagnetic wave propagation in ice and snow, including the permittivity of ice, signal attenuation and volume scattering, along with reflection from rough and specular surfaces. The variety of instruments used in RES of polar ice sheets and temperate glaciers is discussed. The applications and insights that a knowledge of ice thickness, and the wider nature of the form and flow of ice sheets, provides are also considered. The thickest ice measured is 4.7 km in East Antarctica. The morphology of the Antarctic and Greenland ice sheets, and many of the smaller ice caps and glaciers of the polar regions, has been investigated using RES. These findings are being used in three-dimensional numerical models of the response of the cryosphere to environmental change. In addition, the distribution and character of internal and basal reflectors within ice sheets contains information on, for example, ice-sheet layering and its chrono-stratigraphic significance, and has enabled the discovery and investigation of large lakes beneath the Antarctic Ice Sheet. Today, RES from ground-based and airborne platforms remains the most effective tool for measuring ice thickness and internal character.

Astrophysical origins of ultrahigh energy cosmic rays

Abstract: In the first part of this review we discuss the basic observational features at the end of the cosmic ray (CR) energy spectrum. We also present there the main characteristics of each of the experiments involved in the detection of these particles. We then briefly discuss the status of the chemical composition and the distribution of arrival directions of CRs. After that, we examine the energy losses during propagation, introducing the Greisen–Zaptsepin–Kuzmin (GZK) cutoff, and discuss the level of confidence with which each experiment has detected particles beyond the GZK energy limit. In the second part of the review, we discuss the astrophysical environments that are able to accelerate particles up to such high energies, including active galactic nuclei, large scale galactic wind termination shocks, relativistic jets and hot-spots of Fanaroff–Riley radio galaxies, pulsars, magnetars, quasar remnants, starbursts, colliding galaxies, and gamma ray burst fireballs. In the third part of the review we provide a brief summary of scenarios which try to explain the super-GZK events with the help of new physics beyond the standard model. In the last section, we give an overview on neutrino telescopes and existing limits on the energy spectrum and discuss some of the prospects for a new (multi-particle) astronomy. Finally, we outline how extraterrestrial neutrino fluxes can be used to probe new physics beyond the electroweak scale.

Reaching the limits of nuclear stability

Abstract: The limits of nuclear stability have not been reached for most elements. Only for the lightest elements are the minimum and maximum number of neutrons necessary to form an isotope for a given element known. The current limits, novel features of nuclei at these limits as well as the future possibilities of pushing these limits even further will be discussed.

Laser driven inertial fusion energy: present and prospective

Abstract: Recent progress in laser driven implosion is reviewed. Improvements in the uniformity of irradiation by laser beams on fuel pellets have achieved quantitative progress in implosion performance. The recent results of the direct drive–central ignition experiments give us confidence in achieving fusion ignition, burning and energy gain using a multi-beam megajoule laser with full implementation of beam smoothing techniques. Fast ignition research is also reviewed, which could give us a higher energy gain with lower laser energy. The science and technology of laser fusion power plants are beginning to attract wider attention, as forming the road map to achieve commercial power plants for cleaner, safer and abundant fusion energy.Corrections were made to this article on 28 April 2004

The Wigner-function approach to non-equilibrium electron transport

Abstract: The Wigner-function (WF) approach to quantum electron transport in semiconductors is reviewed in this paper. The main definitions and properties related to the WF are presented, with a discussion of the various forms of the dynamical equations that govern its evolution. Monte Carlo solutions of such equations are also discussed. Interactions of electrons with applied fields, potential profiles, and phonons are analysed in detail. Finally, several physical applications are presented. Each topic has been developed from basic principles for the benefit of interested readers who are not experts in the particular subjects discussed in this paper.

Structure and dynamics of negative ions

Abstract: This review focuses on the use of accelerator-based methods to investigate the interaction between negative ions and photons, electrons, heavy particles and external electric fields. The goal of negative ion physics is to better understand the role played by electron correlation in the structure and dynamics of many-electron systems. Negative ions are well suited for such studies since they exhibit an enhanced sensitivity to correlation due to the efficient screening of the nucleus by the atomic electrons. The structure of a negative ion is qualitatively different from that of an atom or positive ion. The difference can be traced to the nature of the force binding the outermost electron. In the case of a negative ion, the extra electron moves in a short-range potential arising from the induced dipole associated with the polarization of the atomic core. Typically, this potential supports only a single bound state. Negative ions are studied experimentally by detaching one or more electrons in a controlled manner. Excited states of negative ions are often found embedded in continua above the first detachment threshold. These transient states decay by autodetachment and their presence is manifested as a resonance structure in detachment cross sections.

Structure and microstructure of colossal magnetoresistant materials

Abstract: Most manganites exhibiting colossal magnetoresistant properties are structurally very simple. They are based on a perosvskite structure with the general formula . The electric and magnetic properties strongly depend on the composition (A, A', x) and eventually on the exact oxygen content. These changing properties are strongly related to structural and microstructural changes. Indeed, the structure has many degrees of freedom. The MnO6 octahedra can not only deform, they can also rotate along their fourfold or twofold axis, giving rise to different superstructures or modulated structures. This will lower the symmetry of the structure from cubic to orthorhombic, rhombohedral or monoclinic. A lowering in symmetry will of course introduce different orientation variants (twins) and translation variants (antiphase boundaries). These microstructural changes are reviewed here through a transmission electron microscopy study of bulk as well as thin film colossal magnetoresistance materials.For thin films grown on a single crystal substrate the misfit with the substrate is another very important parameter, which determines the structure and the microstructure. We review different methods of accommodating the stress induced by the substrate: elastically, through interface dislocations, through pseudo-periodic twinning, through formation of antiphase domains or through a phase transition in the film.

Pattern recognition and event reconstruction in particle physics experiments

Abstract: This report reviews methods of pattern recognition and event reconstruction used in modern high energy physics experiments. After a brief introduction to general concepts about particle detectors and statistical evaluation, different approaches in global and local methods of track pattern recognition are reviewed with their typical strengths and shortcomings. The emphasis is then shifted to methods which estimate the particle properties from those signals which pattern recognition has associated. Finally, the global reconstruction of the event is briefly addressed. (Some figures in this article are in colour only in the electronic version)