Imaging of quantum interference patterns within a quantum point contact

Abstract

Visualization of quantum interference patterns has been obtained within a quantum point contact using scanning gate microscopy. The area distribution of the interference pattern is shown to be consistent with the interference area obtained from the magnetoconductance fluctuations of a quantum point contact. Both distributions follow the Gaussian unitary ensemble, corresponding to chaotic behavior. The interference is caused by the random potential fluctuations within the channel, which is modified by the tip-induced potential.