Quantum coherence of image-potential states

Phys Rev Lett. 2003 Sep 5;91(10):106802. doi: 10.1103/PhysRevLett.91.106802. Epub 2003 Sep 5.

Abstract

The quantum dynamics of the two-dimensional image-potential states in front of the Cu(100) surface is measured by scanning tunneling microscopy and spectroscopy. The dispersion relation and the momentum resolved phase-relaxation time of the first image-potential state are determined from the quantum interference patterns in the local density of states at step edges. It is demonstrated that the tip-induced Stark shift does not affect the motion of the electrons parallel to the surface.