Symmetry-Breaking Phase Transition without a Peierls Instability in Conducting Monoatomic Chains

C. Blumenstein, J. Schäfer, M. Morresi, S. Mietke, R. Matzdorf, and R. Claessen
Phys. Rev. Lett. 107, 165702 – Published 13 October 2011
PDFHTMLExport Citation

Abstract

The one-dimensional (1D) model system Au/Ge(001), consisting of linear chains of single atoms on a surface, is scrutinized for lattice instabilities predicted in the Peierls paradigm. By scanning tunneling microscopy and electron diffraction we reveal a second-order phase transition at 585 K. It leads to charge ordering with transversal and vertical displacements and complex interchain correlations. However, the structural phase transition is not accompanied by the electronic signatures of a charge density wave, thus precluding a Peierls instability as origin. Instead, this symmetry-breaking transition exhibits three-dimensional critical behavior. This reflects a dichotomy between the decoupled 1D electron system and the structural elements that interact via the substrate. Such substrate-mediated coupling between the wires thus appears to have been underestimated also in related chain systems.

  • Figure
  • Figure
  • Figure
  • Figure
  • Received 18 April 2011

DOI:https://doi.org/10.1103/PhysRevLett.107.165702

© 2011 American Physical Society

Authors & Affiliations

C. Blumenstein1, J. Schäfer1, M. Morresi1, S. Mietke2, R. Matzdorf2, and R. Claessen1

  • 1Physikalisches Institut, Universität Würzburg, 97074 Würzburg, Germany
  • 2Fachbereich Naturwissenschaften, Universität Kassel, 34132 Kassel, Germany

Article Text (Subscription Required)

Click to Expand

Supplemental Material (Subscription Required)

Click to Expand

References (Subscription Required)

Click to Expand
Issue

Vol. 107, Iss. 16 — 14 October 2011

Reuse & Permissions
Access Options
Author publication services for translation and copyediting assistance advertisement

Authorization Required


×
×

Images

×

Sign up to receive regular email alerts from Physical Review Letters

Log In

Cancel
×

Search


Article Lookup

Paste a citation or DOI

Enter a citation
×