Rashba Spin-Orbit Coupling Probed by the Weak Antilocalization Analysis in [Formula presented] Quantum Wells as a Function of Quantum Well Asymmetry

Abstract

We have investigated the values of the Rashba spin-orbit coupling constant [Formula presented] in [Formula presented] quantum wells using the weak antilocalization (WAL) analysis as a function of the structural inversion asymmetry (SIA) of the quantum wells. We have found that the deduced [Formula presented] values have a strong correlation with the degree of SIA of the quantum wells as predicted theoretically. The good agreement between the theoretical and experimental values of [Formula presented] suggests that our WAL approach for deducing [Formula presented] values provides a useful tool in designing future spintronics devices that utilize the Rashba spin-orbit coupling. © 2002 The American Physical Society.