Tight-binding model for strongly modulated two-dimensional superlattices

Abstract

Common models describing magnetotransport properties of periodically modulated two--dimensional systems often either directly start from a semiclassical approach or give results well conceivable within the semiclassical framework. Recently, magnetoresistance oscillations have been found on samples with strong unilateral modulation and short period (d=15 nm) which cannot be explained on a semiclassical level (magnetic breakdown). We use a simple fully quantum mechanical model which gives us both magnetoresistance data nicely comparing to the experiments and a good intuitive insight into the effects taking place in the system.