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The finite-structure constant α A contribution of semiconductor physics to the determination of α

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Festkörperprobleme 21

Part of the book series: Advances in Solid State Physics ((ASSP,volume 21))

Abstract

The knowledge of an accurate value for the fine-structure constant α is necessary in order to check the quantum electrodynamic theory and to reduce the uncertainty of other fundamental constants. The various established methods for the determination of α are briefly reviewed and an introduction is given to a new solid state quantum effect (the quantized Hall resistance of a two-dimensional electron gas), which allows α to be calculated directly. After a summary of the properties of a two-dimensional electron gas in a strong magnetic field, measurements of the quantized Hall resistance are presented. Correction terms due to carrier localization, scattering processes, or the finite geometry of the sample, are analyzed.

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Authors and Affiliations

  1. Physik-Department, Technische Universität München, Garching, Germany

    Klaus von Klitzing

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  1. Klaus von Klitzing
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J. Treusch

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© 1981 Friedr. Vieweg & Sohn Verlagsgesellschaft mbH

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von Klitzing, K. (1981). The finite-structure constant α A contribution of semiconductor physics to the determination of α. In: Treusch, J. (eds) Festkörperprobleme 21. Advances in Solid State Physics, vol 21. Springer, Berlin, Heidelberg. https://doi.org/10.1007/BFb0108600

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  • DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/BFb0108600

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