SEMICONDUCTOR CLUSTERS, NANOCRYSTALS, AND QUANTUM DOTS

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