Semiconductor Clusters, Nanocrystals, and Quantum Dots

Abstract

Current research into semiconductor clusters is focused on the properties of quantum dots—fragments of semiconductor consisting of hundreds to many thousands of atoms—with the bulk bonding geometry and with surface states eliminated by enclosure in a material that has a larger band gap. Quantum dots exhibit strongly size-dependent optical and electrical properties. The ability to join the dots into complex assemblies creates many opportunities for scientific discovery.