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J. Schäfer , C. Blumenstein, S. Meyer, and R. Claessen (Universität Würzburg) M. Klinke, T. Novgorodov, R. Matzdorf (Universität Kassel) Model systems for correlated one-dimensional systems that allow study of exotic electron liquids are rare and heavily sought after. A new class of self-organized atomic nanowires on surfaces has emerged just now [1,2]. Such nanostructures allow variation of the interaction parameters on the atomic scale. Very recently, we discovered novel Au-induced chains in which the 1D confinement reaches the ultimate atomic limit [2]. Tunneling data reveal that the conduction electrons in the chain are rigorously separated from the neighboring wires. Such gold chains thus establish an unprecedented approach to a 1D electron liquid. At low temperature there is no indication of condensation of a charge density wave, corroborating the extreme 1D regime. Indication of power-law behavior of the spectral weight near the Fermi level, hinting at Luttinger liquid physics, has been found in tunneling experiments. Moreover, the atomic approach offers the unique possibility to study the influence of finite chain length and point defects on the electron liquid. We find local deviations from power-law behavior, reminiscent of CDW gap spectra. The strict 1D regime thus seems to be affected by defects and surplus atoms. This experimental model system may serve as test for theories of 1D liquids under different conditions, and we will provide a report of the spectral features observed. [1] A. A. Stekolnikov et al., PRL 100, 196101 (2008). [2] J. Schäfer et al., PRL 101, 236802 (2008), Editors' Suggestion. |
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