The quantum dot: a journey into the future of microelectronics - Softcover

TURTON, Richard

Softcover

ISBN 10: 0716745178 ISBN 13: 9780716745174

Publisher: W.H. Freeman, 1995

Synopsis

The impact of microelectronics is apparent all around us: computers, fax machines, compact disc players and children's toys are just a small selection of everyday applications based on silicon chip. This highly readable book is about the tiny electronic devices which have made all of this possible. It explains why semiconductors, such as silicon, have special properties and how these are utilized in devices such as the semiconductor laser and the transistor; how transistors are used to form the basic elements of a computer; and how large numbers of these devices are integrated onto a single small slice of silicon: the ubiquitous silicon chip. Richard Turton's fascinating account goes on to look at recent developments involving tiny structures, sometimes measuring only a few atoms across. This is the world of the quantum dot, where the physical laws that apply are quite different to those we are familiar with in the everyday world. They give rise to strange phenomena which are often totally unexpected, even by the scientists studying them. But they are of far more than merely academic interest: they may well form the basis for future developments in microelectronics. Here, then, is an introduction to the physics behind the microelectronic revolution, and an exploration of likely future advances in the field. The Quantum Dot is completely accessible to general readers, even those with little or no previous knowledge of physics or electronics. And, as a stimulating overview of the subject, it will be enjoyed by students of physic and of electrical engineering.

About this title

About the Author

Richard Turton, Department of Physics, University of Newcastle upon Tyne.

Edition details

• Publisher: W.H. Freeman
• Publication date: 1995
• Language: English
• ISBN 10: 0716745178
• ISBN 13: 9780716745174
• Binding: Paperback
• Edition number: 1
• Number of pages: 256