Quantum Mechanics-Based Simulation (IMAGE)

National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST)

Quantum Mechanics-Based Simulation

Caption

A quantum mechanics-based simulation demonstrates how a new NIST instrument can delicately pull a chain of atoms apart. The chart records quantum jumps in conductivity as a gold contact is stretched 0.6 nanometer. The junction transitions from a 2-dimensional structure to a one-dimensional single-atom chain, with a corresponding drop in conductivity. Following the last point, at a wire length of 3.97 nm, the chain broke.

Credit

Tavazza, NIST

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