Long predicted atomic collapse state observed in graphene
Thursday, March 7, 2013 - 16:10
in Physics & Chemistry
Seventy years ago theorists predicted superlarge nuclei would exhibit a quantum-mechanical phenomenon known as "atomic collapse." Recently materials scientists calculated that highly-charged impurities in graphene should exhibit a corresponding buildup of electrons partially localized in space and energy -- a unique electronic resonance. By constructing artificial superlarge nuclei on graphene, researchers have achieved the first experimental observation of long-sought atomic collapse, with important implications for the future of graphene-based electronic devices.