Double Quantum Dots

A double quantum dot (DQD) is the simplest interacting system which combines, in its transport characteristics, the Coulomb blockade physics of zero-dimensional structures with quantum phenomena typical of more extended conductors. For example, interference emerges, even in the single electron tunnelling regime, due to the combination of quasi-degeneracy in the many-body spectrum and hybridization matrices which mix the different transport channels. Several DQD nanojunctions will be presented in this chapter: the coupling to the electrodes will be analyzed both in the parallel and in series configuration, discussing Pauli spin blockade as well as interference blocking and pseudospin precession resonances.