Two-dimensional systems such as quantum wells confined on one side by a qua
si-infinite barrier and on the other by a very thin variable barrier layer
show interesting features. Experimental results show a strong red-shift [1]
and, a opposing blue-shift [2] on the transition energy. In order to deter
mine which of the two results is correct, here we study theoretically the e
lectronic properties of near-surface GaAs/Ga(x)A(1-x)As quantum wells using
an empirical Tight-Binding Hamiltonian together with the Surface Green Fun
ction Matching (SGFM) method. We study the effect of the width of the varia
ble barrier on the energy values and the spatial localization of the differ
ent states on this heterostructure. (C) 1999 Elsevier Science B.V. All righ
ts reserved.