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Energy Spectroscopy of Josephson Supercurrent

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Abstract

In this paper we review recent microscopic studies ofsupercurrent flow in Josephson junctions. In particular, wediscuss a method that allows direct measurements of thecontribution given to the supercurrent by electrons whichoccupy quantum states at different energies. Relevanttheoretical concepts are explained, with a particular emphasison the relation between Andreev bound states and supercurrent.The experimental system developed to perform these studies, anew kind of four terminal Josephson junctions, is described indetail. Measurements and theoretical predictions are comparedand a very good qualitative agreement is found. In conclusion,possible future directions of research in this area arementioned.

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Morpurgo, A.F., Baselmans, J.J.A., van Wees, B.J. et al. Energy Spectroscopy of Josephson Supercurrent. Journal of Low Temperature Physics 118, 637–651 (2000). https://doi.org/10.1023/A:1004639327733

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