On Low-Temperature Dephasing by Electron-Electron Interaction

Abstract

The quantum coherence of electrons can be probed by studying weak localization corrections to the conductivity. Interaction effects lead to dephasing, with electron-electron interactions being the important intrinsic mechanism. A controversy exists whether or not the dephasing rate, as measured in a weak localization experiment, vanishes at low temperatures. We review the non-perturbative analysis of this question and some of the arguments which have been raised against it. The compact form of the presentation should make the derivation more transparent and accessible for discussions. We also compare with recent experiments.