Abstract
This study aims to investigate local density variations of Fermi gases confined in various geometries at the nano-scale, revealing irregularities even in thermodynamic equilibrium. Calculations show that density of the confined gas in a nano scale domain, decreases towards zero near domain boundaries due to a quantum boundary layer linked to the Planck constant. Additionally, Friedel-like density oscillations are observed in nano-confined Fermi gases. Analytical expressions for the local density distribution are derived for degenerate and one-dimensional scenarios, while numerical computations are conducted for complex geometries and weak degeneracy conditions. In line with existing literature, it is understood that the quantum-size effects observed in the global thermodynamic properties of confined gases are attributed to these local irregularities. It becomes evident that in areas smaller than the threshold determined by the quantum boundary layer, the gas empties the part of the domain or reaches lower densities in the considered part relative to other parts of the domain, despite being in thermodynamic equilibrium. The results indicate the potential for gases to benefit from these behaviors and suggest the possibility of designing and manufacturing new nano-scale machines that are not feasible on a macro-scale.
Original language | English |
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Article number | 035027 |
Journal | Physica Scripta |
Volume | 99 |
Issue number | 3 |
DOIs | |
Publication status | Published - 1 Mar 2024 |
Bibliographical note
Publisher Copyright:© 2024 IOP Publishing Ltd.
Funding
This work was supported by The Scientific and Technological Research Council of Turkey (TUBITAK) under contract number 105T086 and the Istanbul Technical University Scientific Research Program.
Funders | Funder number |
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Türkiye Bilimsel ve Teknolojik Araştırma Kurumu | 105T086 |
Istanbul Teknik Üniversitesi |
Keywords
- fermi gases
- irregular geometries
- local density distribution
- nano-scale confinement
- quantum boundary layer