This article is cited in 3 papers

CONDENSED MATTER

Influence of electric current and magnetic field on terahertz photoconductivity in Pb$_{1-x}$Sn$_x$Te(In)

L. I. Ryabova^a, A. V. Nikorich^b, S. N. Danilov^c, D. R. Khokhlov<sup>a

a</sup> M. V. Lomonosov Moscow State University
^b Institute of Applied Physics Academy of Sciences of Moldova
^c Universität Regensburg

Abstract: Photoconductivity of Pb$_{1-x}$Sn$_x$Te(In) solid solutions in the terahertz spectral range is defined by a new type of local electron states linked to the quasi-Fermi level. The paper deals with investigation of the influence of electric current and magnetic field on the amplitude of the terahertz photoconductivity in Pb$_{1-x}$Sn$_x$Te(In) alloys of different composition. It is shown that the density of local electron states responsible for the positive persistent photoconductivity decreases with increasing electric current via a sample, as well as with transition to the hole conductivity in samples with a high content of tin telluride ($x > 0.26$). It is found that the magnetic field dependence of the positive photoconductivity is non-monotonous and has a maximum. The maximum position in magnetic field is proportional to the terahertz radiation quantum energy. Mechanisms responsible for the effects observed are discussed.

Received: 03.04.2013

DOI: 10.7868/S0370274X13090063

 English version: Journal of Experimental and Theoretical Physics Letters, 2013, 97:9, 607–610

Bibliographic databases:

• 
• 
• 
•