| Abstract: | The method of different orbitals for different spins is considered in the new context of ultrasmall, low-dimensional semiconductor structures. We solved the self-consistent wave equations for two interacting electrons in a quantum wire with a cross bar section. Such a quantum structure is of basic interest because one finds bound states in a potential that is classically open. The self-consistent solutions show that two electrons do not occupy one and the same bound state because orbital splitting is induced by Coulomb interactions. The state of one of the electrons becomes more squeezed while the other one appears delocalized because of screening effects from the first electron. Comparison is made with the Hylleraas' model for the orbital splitting in the helium atom. The effect of orbital splitting on electric transport is discussed briefly. © 1997 John Wiley & Sons, Inc. Int J Quant Chem 63: 667–673, 1997 |
