Does the unit cell size affect the wave function of graphene?

In summary, the wave function of graphene has two components due to the two carbon atoms in its unit cell. The number of components in the wave function depends on the number of atoms in the unit cell. In the tight binding approximation, there are two basic functions (p_z orbitals on each carbon atom) which can be combined to create Bloch states. Including other orbitals will create more bands, but they are not as relevant for electronic properties.
  • #1
Newstein
7
0
I have read many papers stating that the wave function of graphene has two components due to the fact that the unit cell of graphene consists of two carbon atoms (A and B atoms). However, I was confused about that. If the unit cell consist of more atoms, what will the wave function be? Does it has more component?
Do not deride me for my stupied question for I'm not majored in theory. Expecting someone's instruction.
 
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  • #2
The point is more that there are two basis functions (a p_z orbital on each carbon atom) in the tight binding approximation. For each k value, the Bloch states are linear combinations of these two orbitals, or, to be more precise, they are obtained by a unitary transformation from these two orbitals. Hence there will be as many Bloch states as there are basis functions. Inclusion of the p_x, p_y and s orbitals will lead to the appearance of more bands which are however either completely occupied or unoccupied and lie below or above the pi orbitals. Hence they are of little interest as far as the electronic properties are concerned (however they are important to explain e.g. the bond strength in graphene).
 

Related to Does the unit cell size affect the wave function of graphene?

What is the wave function of graphene?

The wave function of graphene is a mathematical description of the probability of finding an electron in a specific state within a sheet of graphene. It is a complex-valued function that describes the quantum mechanical behavior of electrons in graphene.

What is the significance of the wave function of graphene?

The wave function of graphene is significant because it allows us to understand the behavior of electrons in this material, which has unique properties due to its two-dimensional structure. It plays a crucial role in predicting and explaining the electronic properties of graphene, such as its conductivity, band structure, and quantum Hall effect.

How is the wave function of graphene calculated?

The wave function of graphene is calculated using the Schrodinger equation, which is a fundamental equation in quantum mechanics. This equation takes into account the properties of the graphene lattice and the interactions between the electrons and the lattice. The solution to this equation gives us the wave function of graphene.

Can the wave function of graphene be experimentally measured?

While the wave function itself cannot be directly measured, its effects can be observed experimentally. For example, the wave function determines the energy levels and band structure of electrons in graphene, which can be measured using techniques such as angle-resolved photoemission spectroscopy (ARPES) and scanning tunneling microscopy (STM).

How does the wave function of graphene differ from other materials?

The wave function of graphene is unique compared to other materials due to its two-dimensional nature. This leads to different electronic properties, such as the presence of Dirac cones in the band structure and the quantum Hall effect. Additionally, the wave function of graphene is described by a two-component spinor, unlike most other materials which are described by a scalar wave function.

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