The Andreev states of a superconducting quantum dot: Mean field versus exact numerical results

Abstract

We analyze the spectral density of a single level quantum dot coupled to superconducting leads focusing on the Andreev states appearing within the superconducting gap. We use two complementary approaches: the numerical renormalization group and the Hartree-Fock approximation. Our results show the existence of up to four bound states within the gap when the ground state is a spin doublet (π phase). Furthermore the results demonstrate the reliability of the mean field description within this phase. This is understood from a complete correspondence that can be established between the exact and the mean field quasiparticle excitation spectrum within the gap. © 2012 IOP Publishing Ltd.