Spin Distribution in Diffraction Pattern of Two-dimensional Electron Gas with Spin-orbit Coupling

Abstract

Spin distribution in the diffraction pattern of two-dimensional electron gas by a split gate and a quantum point contact is computed in the presence of the spin-orbit coupling. After diffracted, the component of spin perpendicular to the two-dimensional plane can be generated up to 0.42 $\hbar$. The non-trivial spin distribution is the consequence of a pure spin current in the transverse direction generated by the diffraction. The direction of the spin current can be controlled by tuning the chemical potential.